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AND 

CONFESSION    OF    FAITH, 

Approved   of  and  agreed   unto   bj  the    General 

Assembly   of  the    Patriarchs,    Prophets, 

and  Apostles,  CHRIST  himself  Chief 

Speaker  in  and  among  them: 

Wliich  containeth  a  true  and  faithful  Account  of  the 
Principles  and  Doctrines,  which  are  most  surely  believ- 
ed by  the  Churches  of  Christ  in  Great  Britain  and  Ire- 
land, who  are  reproachfully  called  by  the  name  of 
QUAKERS;  yet  are  found  in  the  one  Faith  with  the 
Primitive  Church  and  Saints,  as  is  most  clearly  demon- 
strated by  some  plain  Scripture  Testimonies  (without 
Consequences  or  Commentaries)  which  are  here  col- 
lected, and  inserted  by  way  of  Answer  to  a  few  weig-hty, 
yet  easy  and  familiar  Questions,  fitted  as  well  for  the  wi- 
sest and  largest,  as  for  the  weakest  and  lowest  capacities, 

BY  ROBERT  BARCLAY. 

Search  the  Scriptures,  (or,  ye  search  the  Scriptures)  for  ia 
them  ye  think  ye  have  eternal  Life,  and  they  are  they  "which 
testify  of  me.  And  ye  will  not  come  unto  me,  that  ye  might 
have  Life. John  v.  39,  40, 

TO  WHICH  IS  ADDED, 
THE 

ANCIENT    TESTIMONY 

OF  THE  SAID  PEOPLE,    REVIVED. 


WILMIJ\'GrOJS\  DEL, 
PRINTED  AND  SOLD  BY  JAMES  WILSON^ 

tJVo.  lOJ,  Jdarket  Street, 

182L 


//;|  5Jio7 


55S   IS^t 


CATECHISM 

"All  the  "books  the  Lincoln 
catin  could  boast,  at  that  time,  were  the 
Bihle,  Catechism,  and  the  copy  of  Dil- 
worth*s  spelling  "book  that  Sarah  and 
Ahraham  shared  hetv/een  thea*  This  was 
a  very  small  library  even  for  a  pioneer, 
hut  it  was  good  as  far  as  it  went.  Any 
library  that  begins  with  the  Bible  be- 
gins well.  The  Catechism  and  spelling 
book  were  suitable  companions  for  the  Book 
of  Books.  'The  safeguards  of  our  country 
are  the  Bible,  Sabbath,  and  Public 
School;*  and  here  they  were  in  the  Liiicoln 
cabin,  -  elements  of  family  and  national 
grov/th. " 

(See  page  12  of  "The  Pioneer 
Boy"  by  V/illiajn  M.  Thayer.). 

H.  E.  Barker 


I 

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in  2010  with  funding  from 

The  Institute  of  Museum  and  Library  Services  through  an  Indiana  State  Library  LSTA  Grant 


http://www.archive.org/details/catechismconfessOObarc 


PREFACE  TO  THE  READES. 


SIXCE  first  that  great  apostacy  took  place,  in  the 
hearts  and  heads  of  those  who  began,  even  m  the  Apos- 
tles' da3-s,  to  depart  from  the  simplicity  and  purity  of  the 
gospel,  as  it  was  then  delivered  in  its  primitive  splendor 
and  integrity,  innumerable  have  been  the  manifold  inven- 
tions and  traditions,  the  different  and  various  notions  and 
opinions,  wherewith  man  (by  giving  way  to  the  vain  and 
airy  imaginations  of  his  own  unstable  mind)  hath  burthen- 
ed  the  christian  faith;  so  that  indeed,  first  by  adding  these 
things,  and  afterwards  by  equalling  them,  if  not  exalting 
them  above  the  truth,  they  have  at  last  come  to  be  sub- 
stituted in  the  stead  of  it;  so  that  in  process  of  time  truth 
came  to  be  shut  out  of  doors,  and  another  thing  placed  in 
the  room  thereof,  having  a  shew  and  name,  but  wanting 
the  substance  and  thing  itself.  Nevertheless,  it  pleased 
God  to  raise  up  witnesses  for  himself  ahnost  in  every  age 
and  generation,  who,  according  to  the  discoveries  they 
received,  bore  some  testimony,  less  or  more,  against  the 
superstition  and  apostacy  of  the  time;  and  in  special 
manner,  through  the  appearing  of  that  light  which  first 
broke  forth  in  Germany,  about  one  hundred  and  fifty 
years  ago,  and  afterwards  reached  divers  other  nations, 
the  beast  received  a  deadly  wound;  and  ar  very  great  num- 
ber did  at  one  time  protest  against,  and  rescind  from  the 
Church  of  Rome,  in  divers  of  their  most  gross  and  sensual 
doctrines  and  superstitious  traditions:  but,  alas!  it  is  for 
matter  of  lamentation,  that  t^e  successors  of  these  Pro- 
testants are  establishing  and  building  up  in  themselves, 
that  which  their  fathers  were  pulling  down,  instead  of 
prosecuting  and  going  on  with  so  good  and  honorable  a 
work,  v.'hich  will  easily  appear. 


IV  PREFACE.  ^ 

The  g-enerality  of  all  Protestants  (though  in  many  other 
things  miserably  rent  and  shattered  among  tliemselves)  do 
agree  in  dividing  from  the  Church  of  Rome  in  these  two 
particulars: 

First — That  every  principle  and  doctrine  of  the  chris- 
tian faitli,  is,  and  ought  to  be,  founded  upon  the  scripture; 
and  that  whatsoever  principles  and  doctrines  are  not  only 
not  contrary,  but  even  not  according  thereto,  ought  to  be 
denied  as  antichristian. 

Secondly — That  the  scriptures  themselves  are  plain  and 
easy  to  be  understood;  andtliat  every  private  christian  and 
member  of  the  church  ought  to  read  and  peruse  them, 
that  they  may  know  their  faith  and  belief  founded  upon 
them,  and  receive  them  for  that  cause  alone,  and  not  be- 
cause any  church  or  assembly  has  compounded  and  recom- 
mended them;  the  choicest  and  most  pure  of  which,  they 
are  obliged  to  look  upon  as  falUble. 

Now,  contrary  to  this  their  known  and  acknowledged 
principle,  they  do  most  vigorously  prosecute  and  persecute 
othexs  with  the  like  severity  the  Papists  did  their  fathers, 
for  believing  things  that  are  plainly  set  down  in  the  scrip- 
tures, and  for  not  believing  divers  principles,  for  which 
themselves  are  forced  to  recur  to  tradition,  and  can  by  no 
means  prove  from  scripture:  to  shew  %hich  I  shall  not  here 
insist,  having  allotted  a  chapter  for  it  in  the  book  itself— 
because,  to  put  it  here,  would  swell  it  beyond  the  bounds 
of  a  preface. 

Oh!  how  hke  do  they  shew  themselves  (I  mention  it  with 
regret)  to  the  scribes  and  pharisees  of  old,  who,  of  all 
men,  most  cried  up  and  exalted  Moses  and  the  prophets, 
boasting  greatly  of  their  being  Abraham's  children!  And 
yet  those  are  they  that  were  the  greatest  opposers  and 
vilifiers  of  Christ,  to  whom  Moses  and  all  the  prophets 
gave  witntss:  yea,  their  chief  accusations  and  exceptions 


PREFACE.  V 

against  Christ  were,  as  being-  a  breaker  of  the  law,  and  a 
blasphemer. 

Can  there  any  comparison  run  more  parallel?  seeing 
there  Is  now  found  a  people,  who  are  greatly  persecuted, 
and  bitterly  reviled,  and  accused  as  heretics,  by  a  gene- 
ration that  cry  up  and  exalt  the  scriptures:  and  yet  these 
people's  principles  are  found  in  scripture,  word  by  word; 
though  the  most  grievous,  and  indeed  the  greatest  calum- 
ny cast  upon  them  is,  that  they  vilify  and  deny  the  scrip- 
tures, and  setup  their  own  imaginations  instead  of  them. 

To  disprove  which,  this  Catechism  and  Confession  of 
Faith  is  compiled,  and  presented  to  thy  serious  and  im- 
partial view.  If  thou  lovest  the  scriptures  Indeed,  and 
desirest  to  hold  the  plain  doctrines  there  delivered,  and 
not  those  strained  and  far  fetched  consequences,  which 
men  have  invented,  thou  shalt  easily  observe  the  whole 
principles  of  the  people  called  Quakers,  plainly  couched 
in  scripture  words,  without  addition  or  commentary;  es- 
pecially In  those  things  their  adversaries  oppose  them  in, 
where  the  scripture  plainly  decideth  the  controversy  for 
them,  without  niceties  and  school-distinctions,  which  have 
been  the  wisdom  by  which  the  world  hath  not  known  God; 
and  the  words  which  have  been  multiplied  without 
knowledge,  by  which  counsel  hath  been  darkened. 

In  the  answers  to  the  questions,  there  Is  not  one  word, 
that  I  know  of,  placed,  but  the  express  words  of  scripture: 
and  if  in  some  of  the  questions  there  be  somewhat  sub- 
sumed, of  what  In  my  judgment  is  the  plain  and  naked 
import  of  the  words.  It  is  not  to  impose  my  sense  upon  the 
reader,  but  to  make  way  for  the  next  questions,  for  the 
dependance  of  the  matter's  sake. 

I  shall  leave  it  to  the  reason  of  any  understanding  and 
judicious  man,  who  is  not  biassed  by  self-interest,  tnat 
great  eneniy  to  true  equity,  and  who  in  the  least  measure 

A2 


Vi    .  PREFACE. 

is  willing  to  give  way  to  the  light  of  Christ  in  his  con- 
science, if  the  scriptures  do  not  pertinently  and  aptly 
answer  to  the  questions?        ^ 

As  I  have  upon  serious  grounds  separated  from  most  of 
the  confessions  and  catechisms  heretofore  published;  so, 
not  without  cause,  I  now  have  taken  another  method:  they 
usually  place  their  confession  of  faith  before  the  cMe- 
chism:  I  judge  it  ought  to  be  otherwise,  in  regard  that 
which  is  easiest,  and  is  composed  for  children,  or  such  as 
are  weak,  ought  in  my  judgment  to  be  placed  first;  it  bcr 
ing  most  regular  to  begin  with  things  that  are  easy  and  fa- 
miliar, and  lead  on  to  things  that  are  more  hard  and  intri- 
cate. Besides,  that  things  be  more  largely  opened  in  the 
catechism,  and  divers  objections  answered,  which  are  pro- 
posed in  the  questions,  the  reader  having  passed  through 
that  first,  will  more  perfectly  understand  the  confession, 
which  consisteth  mainly  in  positive  assertions. 
-  Not  long  after  I  had  received  and  beheved  the  testimony 
1  now  bear,  I  had  in  my  view  both  the  possibility  and  fa- 
cility of  such  a  work;  and  now  after  a  more  large  and  per- 
fect acquaijita  ^.ce  with  the  holy  scriptures,  1  found  access 
to  allow  some  time  to  set  about  it,  and  have  also  been 
helped  to  accompiish  the  same. 

I  doubt  not  but  it  might  be  enlarged  by  divers  citations, 
which  are  here  omitted,  as  not  being  at  present  brought  to 
my  remembrance;  yet  I  find  cause  to  be  contented,  in  that 
God  hath  so  far  assisted  me  in  this  work  by  his  Spirit,  that 
good  Remembrancer;  the  manifestation  of  which,  as  it  is 
minded,  will  help  such  as  seriously  and  conscientiously  read 
this,  to  find  out  and  cleave  to  the  truth,  and  also  establish 
and  confirm  those  who  have  already  believed:  which  of  all 
things  is  most  earnestly  desired,  and  daily  prayed  for. 

By  ROBERT  BARCLA^i^ 
^9  servant  of  the  CJmrch  of  Christ. 
Fi'om  Urie,  the  place  of  my  beirig,-,  in  my  native 

country  of  Scotland,  the  11th  of  the  sixth  month,  1673, 


Ji   CATECHISM,   S^c, 

y  CHAP.  I. 

I  OJ  God,  and  the  true  and  saving  knowledge  of  hwu 

Quest.  SEEING  it  is  a  thing  unquestioned 
by  all  sorts  of  Christians,  that  the  height  of  hap- 
piness consisteth  in  coming  to  know  and  enjoy 
eternal  life,  what  is  it  in  the  sense  and  judgment 
of  Christ? 

Ans.     This  is  life  eternal,    that   they  might  ^^^^  ^^  ^ 
know  thee  the  only  true  God,  and  Jesus  Christ 
whom  thou  hast  sent. 

Q.  How  doth  God  reveal  his  knowledge.^ 

A.  For  God,  who  commanded  the  light  to  shine  2 Cor. 4.  G. 
out  of  darkness,  hath  shined  in  our  hearts,  to  give 
the  light  of  the  knowledge  of  the  glory  of  God, 
in  the  face  of  •Jesus  Christ. 

Q.  How  many  Gods  are  there? 

A.  One  God.  Eph.  4.  6. 

We  know  that  an  idol  is  nothing  in  the  ^'orld,  ^^^^  g^  g 
and  that  there  is  none  other  God  but  one.     But 
to  us  there  is  but  one  God. 

Q.   What  is  God? 

A.  God  is  a  Spirit.  John 4.  24. 

Q.  Among  all  the  blessed,  glorious  and  divine 
excellencies  of  God,  which  are  ascribed  and  giv- 
en to  him  in  the  Scriptures;  what  is  tliat  which  is" 
most  needful  for  us  to  take  notice  of,  as  being  the 
message  which  the  apostles  recorded  in  special 


8  BARCLAY^S    CATECHISM. 

manner  to  declare  of  him  now  under  the  gospel? 
IJohnl  5       ■^*  ^^'^^^  then,  is  the  message  which  we  have 
heard  of  him,  and  declare  unto  you,  that  God  is 
light,  and  in  him  is  no  darkness  at  all. 

Q.  What  are  they  that  bear  record  in  heaven? 
ch.  5.  7  A.  There  are  tiiree  that  bear  record  in  heaven, 

I;  the  Father,   the   Word  and  the  Holy  Ghostj  and 

these  three  are  one. 

Q.  How  cometh  any  man  to  know  God  the  Fa- 
ther, according  to  Christ's  words? 
Luk.lO.  22.      A.  All  things  are  delivered  to  me  of  my  Fa- 
^^'    '     •  ther,  and  no  man  knows  who  the  Son  is,  but  the 
Father,  and  who  the  Father  is,  but  the  Son,  and 
he  to  whom  the  Son  will  reveal  him. 
John  14.  6.      Jesus  saith  unto  him,  I  am  the  way,  the  truth 
and  the  life,   no  man  cometh  unto  the  Father  but 
by  me. 

Q.  By  whom,  and  after  what  manner  doth  the 
Son  reveal  his  knowledge? 

ICor.  2.  9,      A.  But  as  it  is  written.  Eye  hath  not  seen,  nor 
10   11     12.  . 

ear  heard,   neither  have  entered  into  the  heart  of 

man,    the  things  which  God  hath  prepared  for 

them  that  love  him!  but  God  hath  revealed  them 

unto  us  by  his  Spirit:  for  the  Spirit  searcheth  all 

things,  yea,  the  deep  things  of  God.     For   what 

man  knoweth  the  things  of  a  man,  save  the  spirit 

of  a  man  which  is  in  him?  even  so  the  things  of 

God  knoweth  no  man,   but   the    Spirit   of  God. 

Kow,   we   have  received,    not  the  spirit  of  the 

Svorld;  but  the  Spirit  which  is  of  God,  that  we 


9 

iTiight  know  the  things  that  are  freely  given  to  us 
of  God. 

But  the  Comforter,  which  is  the  Holy  Ghost,  Johnl4.26, 
whom  the  Father  will  send  in  my  name,  he  shall 
teach  you  all  things,  and  bring  all  things  to  your 
remembrance,  &c.  , 

CHAP.  ir. 

OJ  the  rule  and  guide  of  Christians^  and  of  the 
Scriptures, 

*   Q.  Seeing  it  is  by  the  Spirit,  that  Christ  reveals 

the  knowledge  of  God  in  things  spiritual^  is  it  by 

the  Spirit  that  we  must  be  led  under  the  gospel? 

A.  But  ye  are  not  in  the  flesh,  but  in  the  Spi-  Romans  8. 

9   14 
rit,  if  so  be  that  the  Spirit  of  God  dwell  in  you.    ' 

Now,  if  any  man  have  not  the  Spirit  of  Christ, 

he  is  none  of  his.     For,  as  many  as  are  led  by 

the  Spirit  of  God,  they  are  the  sons  of  God. 

Q.  Is  it  an  inward  principle  then,  that  is  to  be 
the  guide  and  rule  of  christians.^ 

A.  But  the  anointing,  which  ye  have  received  j  john2. 
of  him,  abideth  in  you;  and  ye  need  not  that  any  2^' 
man  teach  you,  but  as  the  same  anointing  teacheth 
you  of  all  things,  and  is  truth,  and  is  no  lie;  and 
even  as  it  hath  taught  you,  ye  shall  abide  in  him. 

But  as  touching  brotherly  love,  ye  need  not  ixhesA  9. 
that  I   write   unto   you;    for  ye  yourselves   are 
taught  of  God  to  love  one  another. 

Q.  1  perceive  by  this,  that  it  is  by  an  inward 


10  Barclay's  catechism. 

anointing  and  rule  that  christians  are  to  be 
taught:  is  this  the  \ery  tenor  of  the  new  covenant 
di^ensation? 

Heb.  8. 10.  A.  For  this  is  the  covenant  that  I  will  make  | 
with  the  house  of  Israel,  after  those  days,  saith  ] 
the  Lord;  I  will  put  n^y  laws  into  their  mind,  and  I 

verse  11.     write  them  in  their  hearts:  and  I  will  be  to  them  ': 
a  God,  and  they  shall  be  to  me  a  people.     And  , 
they  shall  not  teach  every  man  his  neighbor,  and  I 
exevy  man  his  brother,   saying.   Know  the  Lord, 
for  all  shall  know  me,    from  the  least    to  the 
greatest. 

John  6.  45.      And  they  shall  be  all  taught  of  God. 

Q.  Did  Christ  then  promise,  that  the  Spirit 
should  both  abide  with  his  disciples,  and  be  in 
them.^ 

John  14.  A.  And  I  will  pray  the  Father,  and  he  shall 
■■  '  give  you  another  Comforter,  that  he  may  abide 
with  you  for  ever,  even  the  Spirit  of  truth,  whom 
the  world  cannot  receive,  because  it  seeth  him 
not,  neither  knoweth  him:  but  ye  know  him;  for 
he  dwells  with  you,  and  shall  be  in  you. 

Q.  For  what  end  were  the  scriptures  written? 

Rom.  15. 4.  A.  For  whatsoever  things  were  written  afore- 
time, were  written  for  our  learning,  that  we 
through  patience  and  comfort  of  the  scriptures 
might  have  hope. 

Q.  For  what  are  they  profitable? 

^rr,'     c^  A.  Thou  hast  known  the  holy  scriptures,  which 

2  Tim.  3.  ''  ^  ' 

15. 16, 17.   are  able  to  make  thee  wise  unto  salvation,  through 


Barclay's  catechism.  H 

! 

faith  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus.  All  scripture  is 
given  bj  inspiration  of  God,  and  is  profitable  for 
doctrine,  for  reproof,  for  correction,  for  instruc- 
tion in  righteousness,  that  the  man  of  God  may 
be  perfect,  throughly  furnished  unto  all  good 
works. 

Q.  Wherein  consists  the  excellency  of  the 
scriptures? 

A.  Knowing  this  first,  that  no  prophecy  of  the  2  Peter  1. 
scriptures  is  of  any  private   interpretation.     For  2^'»  ^^^ 
the  prophecy  came  not  in  old  time  by  the  will  of 
man,  but  holy  men  of  God  spake  as  they  were 
moved  by  the  Holy  Ghost. 

Q.  The  scriptures  are  then  to  be  regarded,  be- 
cause they  came  from  the  Spirit,  and  they  also 
testify,  that  not  they,  but  the  Spirit,  is  to  lead 
into  truth:  in  what  respect  doth  Christ  command 
to  search  them? 

A.  Search  the  scriptures,  for  in  them  ye  think  jo^n  S.  39. 
ye  have  eternal  life,  and  they  are  they  which 
testify  of  me. 

Q.  I  perceive  there  was  a  generation  of  old, 
that  greatly  exalted  the  scriptures,  and  yet  would 
not  believe,  nor  come  to  be  guided  by  that  the 
acriptures  directed  to:  How  doth  Christ  bespeak 
such? 

A.  Do  not  think  that  I  will  accuse  you  to  the  john  5, 
Father;  there  is  one  that  accuseth  you,  even  Mo-  45^46, 47. 
ses,  in  whom  ye  trust.     For  had  ye  believed  Mo- 
ses, ye  would  have  believed  me;  for  he  wrote  of 


l2  BARCLAY'S    CATECHISM. 

me.      But  if  ye  believe  not  his  writings,   how 
shall  ye  believe  my  words? 

Q.  What  ought  such  then  to  be  accounted  of, 
notwithstanding  of  their  pretences  of  being  ruled 
by  the  scriptures? 
^  Peter  -^*  ^^  vvhich  are  some  things  hard  to  be  under- 

•3. 16.  stood,  which  they  that  are  unlearned  and  unsta- 

ble, wrest,  as  they  do  also  tlie  other  scriptures, 
unto  their  own  destruction. 


CHAP.   III. 

Of  Jesus  Christ  being  manifest  in  tfie  flesh;  the 
use  and  end  of  it. 

Q.  What  are  the  scriptures  which  do  most 
observably  prophesy  of  Christ's  appearance? 

Deut.  18.  A.  The  Lord  thy  God  will  raise  up  unto  thee 
a  prophet  from  the  midst  of  thee,  of  thy  breth- 
ren, like  unto  me,  unto  him  ye  shall  hearken. 

Isa.  7. 14.  Therefore  the  Lord  himself  shall  give  you  a 
sign:  behold  a  virgin  shall  conceive  and  bear  a 
son,  and  shall  call  his  name  Immanuel. 

Q.  Was  not  Jesus  Christ  in  being  before  he  ap- 
peared in  the  flesh?  What  clear  scriptures  prove 
this,  against  such  as  erroneously  assert  the  con- 
trary? 

Mic.  5.  2.  ^'  ^"^  ^^^ou  Beth-lehem  Ephratah,  though  thou 
be  little  among  the  thousands  of  Judah,  yet  out 
of  thee  shall  he  come  forth  unto  me,  that  is  to  be 


BARCLAY'S    CATECHISM.  13 

ruler  in  Israel,  whose  goings  forth  have  been  from 
of  old,  from  everlasting. 

In  the  beginning  was  the  Word,  and  the  A¥ord  john  1. 
was  with  God,  and  the  Word  was  God;  the  same  ^'^'  ^* 
was  in  the  beginning  with  God:  all  things  were 
made  by  him,  and  without  him  was  not  any  thing 
wade  that  was  made. 

Jesus  said  unto  them,  Verily,  verily,  I  say  unto  John  8.  58, 
3^ou,  before  Abraham  was,  I  am. 

And  now,  0  Father,  glorify  thou  me  with  thine  John  17.  5. 
own  self,  with  the  glory  which  I  had  with  thee 
before  the  world  was. 

And  to  make  all  men  see  what  is  the  fellowship  ^p^j  3  g 
of  the  mystery,  which  from  the  beginning  of  the 
world  hath  been  hid  in  God,  who  created    all 
things  by  Jesus  Christ. 

For  by  him  were  all  things  created  that  are  in  Col.  1. 16. 
heaven,  and  that  are  in  earth,  visible  and  invisible, 
whether  they  be  thrones,  or  dominions,  or  princi- 
palities, or  powers;  all  things  were  created  by 
him,  and  for  him. 

God  hath  in  these  last  days  spoken  unto  us  by  Heb.  1.  2. 
his   Son,    whom   he  hath   appointed  heir  of  all 
things,  by  whom  also  he  made  the  world. 

Q.  These  are  very  clear,  that  even  the  world 
was  created  by  Christ:  but  what  scriptures  prove 
the  divinity  of  Christ,  against  such  as  falsely 
deny  the  same? 

A.  And  the  Word  was  God.  John  1.  I. 

Whose  are  the  fatherSj  and  of  whom;  as  con-  Rom.  9.5, 
B 


14  bahclay's  catechism. 

cerning  the  flesh,  Christ  came,  who  is  over  all, 
God  blessed  for  ever.     Amen. 

Phil.  2.  6.  Who  being  in  the  form  of  God,  thought  it  no 
robbery  to  be  equal  with  God. 

1  John  5.        And  we  know  that  the  Son  of  God  is  come,  and 

"  '  hath  given  us  an  understanding,  that  we   may 

know  him  that  is  true,  and  we  are  in  him  that  is 
true,  even  in  his  Son  Jesus  Christ:  this  is  the  true 
God,  and  eternal  life. 

Q.  What  are  the  glorious  names  the   scripture 
gives  unto  Jesus  Christ,  the  eternal  Son  of  God? 

Isa  9.  6.  ■^*  -^"^  '^'^  name  shall  be  called,  Wonderful, 
Counsellor,  the  Mighty  God,  the  Everlasting 
Father,  the  Prince  of  Peace. 

Col.  1.15.  Who  is  the  image  of  the  invisible  God,  the 
first-born  of  every  creature. 

Heb.  1.  3.  \Vho  being  the  brightness  of  his  glory,  and  the 
express  image  of  his  person  (or  more  proper  ac- 
cording to  the  Greek,  of  his  substance.) 

Ilev,19. 13.      And  he  was  clothed  with  a  vesture  dipped  in 

blood;  and  his  name  is  called  the  Word  of  God. 

Q.  After  what  manner  was  the  birth  of  Christ? 

Mat.  1.  18.  ^^  jsJq^  ^j-jg  \^\i{\^  of  Jesus  Christ  was  on  this 
wise:  when  as  his  jnother  Mary  was  espoused  to 
Joseph  (before  they  came  together)  she  was  found 
with  child  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

i-i^kel.oO.      And  the  angel  said  unto  her,  Fear  not  Mary, 

35'  '  '  for  thou  hast  found  favor  with  God.  And  behold 
thou  shalt  conceive  in  thy  womb,  and  bring  forth 
a  son,  and  shalt  call  his  name  Jesus:  he  shall  be 


Barclay's  cateohism.  ^5 

great,  and  shall  be  called  the  Son  of  the  Highest; 
and  the  Lord  God  shall  give  unto  him  the  throne 
of  his  father  David.  Then  said  Mary  unto  the 
angel,  how  shall  this  be,  seeing  I  know  not  a  man? 
And  the  angel  answered  and  said  unto  her.  the 
Holy  Ghost  shall  come  upon  thee,  and  the  power 
of  the  Highest  shall  overshadow  thee:  therefore 
also  that  holj  thing,  that  shall  be  born  of  thee, 
shall  be  called  the  Son  of  God. 

Q.  Was  Jesus  Christ,  who  was  born  of  the 
Virgin  Mary,  and  supposed  to  be  the  son  of  Jo- 
seph, a  true  and  real  man? 

A.  Forasmuch  as  the  children  are  partakers  of  Heb.2.  14. 
flesh  and  blood,  he  also  himself  took  part  of  the 
same,  that  through  death  he  might  destroy  him 
that  had  the  power  of  death,  that  is,  the  devil. 

For  verily  he  took   not  on  him  the  nature  of  Heb.  2. 
angels,  but  he  took  on  him  the  seed  of  Abraham,      '     * 
Wherefore,  in  all  things  it  behoved  him   to  be 
made  like  unto  his  brethren,  that  he  might  be  a 
merciful  and  faithful  high  priest,  &c. 

For  we  have  not  an  high  priest  which  cannot  jj^^^  ^  jv^ 
be  touched  with  the  feeling  of  our  infirmities,  but 
was  in  all  points  tempted  as  we  are,  yet  without 
sin. 

And  the  gift  by  grace,  which  is  by  one  man,  Rom.  5. 15. 
Jesus  Christ,  hath  abounded  unto  many. 

But  now  is  Christ  risen  from  the  dead,  and  be-  i  cor.  15, 
come    the  first  fruits  of  them  that  slept.     For  ^^-  ^^' 


16  Barclay's  catechism, 

since  by  man  came  death,  by  man  came  also  the 
resurrection  of  the  dead. 

Q.  After  what  manner  doth  the  scripture  assert 
the  conjunction  and  urity  of  the  eternal  Son  of 
God,  in  and  with  the  man  Christ  Jesus? 

John  1. 14.  A.  And  the  Word  was  made  flesh,  and  dwelt 
among  us  (and  we  beheld  his  glory,  the  glory  as 
of  the  only  begotten  of  the  Father)  full  of  grace 
and  truth. 

John  3. 34,  For  he  whom  God  hath  sent,  speaketh  the 
words  of  God;  for  God  giveth  not  the  Spirit  by 
measure  unto  him. 

Acts  10.38.  *^<*^v  ^od  anointed  Jesus  of  Nazareth  with  the 
Holy  Ghost  and  with  power,  who  went  about  do- 
ing good,  and  healing  all  that  were  oppressed  of 
the  devil;  for  God  was  with  him. 

Col,  1. 19.  For  it  pleased  the  Father,  that  in  him  should 
all  fulness  dwell. 

Col.  2. 9.  For  in  him  dwelleth  all  the  fulness  of  the 
Godhead  bodily. 

Col.  2.  3.  In  him  are  hid  all  the  treasures  of  wisdom  and 
knowledge. 

Q.  For  what  end  did  Christ  appear  in  the  world? 

Rom.  8.3.  -^*  For  what  the  law  could  not  do,  in  that  it 
was  weak  through  the  flesh,  God  sending  his  Son, 
in  the  likeness  of  sinful  flesh,  and  for  sin,  con- 
demned sin  in  the  flesh. 

1  John  3.        For  this  purpose  the  Son  of  God  w'as  manifest- 

5  8 

ed,  that  he  might  destroy  the  works  of  the  deviL 


Barclay's  catechism.  IT 

And  ye  know  that  he  was  manifested  to  take 
away  our  sins. 

Q.  Was  Jesus  Christ  really  crucified  and  raised 
again? 

A.  For  I  delivered  unto   you  first  of  all,  that  i  Coi-.  15, 
which  I  also   received,  how  that  Christ  died  for  "^' ^* 
our  sins,  according  to  the  scriptures:  and  that  he 
was  buried,  and  that  he  rose  again  the  third  day, 
according  to  the  scriptures. 

Q.  What  end   do  the  scriptures  ascribe   unto 
the  coming,  death  and  sufferings  of  Christ? 

A.  For  mine  eyes  have  seen    thy    salvation,  Luke  2. 
which  thou  hast  prepared  before  the  face  of  all  ^^>  ^^>  ^^• 
people.     A  light  to  lighten  the  Gentiles,  and  the 
glory  of  thy  people  Israel. 

Whom  God  hath  set  forth  to  be  a  propitiation  Rom.  3. 25, 
through  faith  in  his  blood,  to  declare  his  right- 
eousness for  the  remission  of  sins  that  are  past, 
through  the  forbearance  of  God.  , 

And  walk  in  love,  as  Christ  also  hath  loved  us,  Eph.  5.  2. 
and  hath  given  himself  for  us,  an  offering  and  a 
sacrifice  to  God  for  a  sweet  smelling  savour. 

And  having  made  peace  through  the  blood  of  coi.  i, 
his  cross  by  him,  to  reconcile  all  things  unto  him-  20/21,22. 
self;  by  him,  I  say,  whether  they  be  things  in 
earth,  or  things  in  heaven.  And  you  that  were 
sometime  alienated,  and  enem.ies  in  your  minds 
by  wicked  works;  yet  now  hath  he  reconciled  in. 
the  body  of  his  fle.sh,  through  death,  to  present 
you  holy,  unblamable  and  unreprovable  in  his  sight. 
B2 


18  Barclay's  cATECHisir. 

Heb.  0.  Neither  by  the  blood  of  goats  and  calves,  but 

12  14.  J  b  ' 

'  '     '        by  his  own  blood,  he  entered  in  once  into  the  holy 

place,  having  obtained  eternal  redemption  for  us. 

How  much  more  shall    the  blood  of  Christ,  who 

through  the  eternal  Spirit  offered  himself  without 

spot  to  God,  purge  your  consciences  from  dead 

works  to  serve  the  living  God? 

1  Peter  3.        ^^'*  Christ  also  hath  once  suffered  for  sins,  the 

^S.  just  for  the  unjust  (that  he  might  bring  us  to  God) 

being  put  to  death  in  the  flesh,  but  quickened  by 
the  Spirit. 

1  John  3.  Hereby  perceive  we  the  love  of  God,  because 
he  laid  down  his  life  for  us. 

Ileb.  9. 15,  And  for  this  cause  he  is  the  mediator  of  the 
New  Testament,  that  by  means  of  death  for  the 
redemption  of  the  transgressions  that  were  under 
the  first  Testament,  they  which  are  called,  might 
receive  the  promise  of  the  eternal  inheritance. 
Q.  Is  Christ  then  the  Mediator? 

I  Tim.  2. 5,  A.  For  there  is  one  God,  and  one  Mediator  be- 
tween God  and  man,  the  man  Christ  Jesus,  who 
gave  himself  a  ransom  for  all,  to  be  testified  in 
due  time.  ' 

Q.  Was  not  Christ  the  Mediator  until  he  ap- 
peared, and  was  crucified  in  the  flesh? 

Rev.  5. 12.  A.  He  is  the  Lamb  that  was  slain  from  the 
foundation  of  the  world. 

Q.  Is  it  needful  then  to  believe,  that  the  saints 
of  old  did  partake  of  Christ,  as  then  present 
■with  and  nourishing  them? 


Barclay's  catechism.  19 

A.  Moreover,    brethren,  I  would  not  that  ye  1  Cor.  10, 

1^34 
should  be  ignorant,  how  that  all  our  fathers  were   *"'  '   ' 

under  the  cloud,  and  all  passed  through  the  sea, 
and  were  all  baptized  unto  Moses  in  the  cloud, 
and  in  the  sea,  and  did  all  eat  the  same  spiritual 
meat;  and  did  all  drink  the  same  spiritual  drink; 
(for  thej  drank  of  that  spiritual  Rock  that  fol- 
lowed them,  and  that  Rock  was  Christ.) 

Q.  But  whereas  most  of  these  scriptures  before 
mentioned,  do  hold  forth,  that  the  death  and  suf- 
ferings of  Christ  were  appointed  for  the  destroy- 
ing, removing,  and  remitting  of  sin;  did  he  so  do 
it  while  he  was  outwardly  upon  earth,  as  not  to 
leave  any  thing  for  himself  to  do  in  us,  nor  for  us 
to  do,  in  and  by  his  strength? 

A.  For  even  hereunto  were  ye  called,  because  i  Peter  2. 
Christ  also  suftered  for  us,  leaving  us  an  example,  ^l- 
that  ye  should  follow  his  steps. 

Whereof  I  Paul  am  made  a  minister,  who  now  ^^^j  j 
rejoice  in  my  sufferings  for  you,  and  fill  up  that  23, 24. 
which  is  behind  of  the  afflictions  of  Christ  in  my 
flesh,  for  his  body's  sake,  which  is  the  church. 

Always  bearing  about  in  the  body  the  dying  of  2  Cor.  4. 
the  Lord  Jesus;  that  the  life  also  of  Jesus  might  ^^*  ^^' 
be  made  manifest  in  our  body.     For  we  which 
live,  are  always  delivered  unto  death  for  Jesus's 
sake,  that  the  life  also  of  Jesus  might  be  made 
manifest  in  our  mortal  flesh. 

And  that  he  died  for  all,  that  they  which  live,  c^r 
should  not  henceforth  live  unto  themselves,  but 


20  EAUCLAY'S    CATECHISM.  | 

unto  him  that  died  for  them,  and  also  rose  again. 
Phil.  3.10.       That  I  niaj  know  him,  and  the  power  of  his 
resurrection,  and  the  fellowship  of  his  sufferings, 
being  made  conformable  to  his  death. 

CHAP.  IV. 

Of  the  new  hirih,  the  inward  appearance  of  Christ 
in  Spirit,  and  the  unity  of  the  saints  with  him, 

Q.  Doth  Christ  promise  then  to  come  again  to 

his  disciples? 
JohnU.  18.      A.  I  will  not  leave  you  comfortless;  I  will  come 

unto  you. 

Q.  Was  this  only  a  special  promise  to  these 

disciples?  or  is  it  not  the  common  privilege  of  the 

saints? 
Isa.5M5.       A.  For  thus  saith  the  high  and  lofty  One,  that 

inhabits  eternity,  whose  name  is  Holy;  I  dwell  in 

the  high  and  holy  place,  with  him  also  that  is  of  a 

contrite  and  humble  spirit,  &c. 
2  Cor.  6.         For  ye  are  the  temple  of  the  living  God;  as  God 

hath  said,  I  will  dwell  in  them  and  walk  in  them. 
Key. 3. 20.       Behold,  I  stand  at  the  door  and  knock,  if  any 

man  hear  my  voice,  and  open  the  door,  I  will  come 

in  to  him,  and  sup  with  him,  and  he  with  me. 
Q.  Doth  the  apostle  Paul  speak  of  the  Son  of 

God  being  revealed  in  him? 
Gal.  1.  A.  But  when  it  pleased  God,  who  separated  me 

^'     '        from  my  mother's  womb,  and  called  me  by  his 


Barclay's  eATficHis>f.  21 

l^race,  to  reveal   his  Son  in  me,    that  I  might 

jreach  him  among  the  heathen. 

I    Q.  Is  it  needful  then  to  know  Christ  within? 

A.  Examine  yourselves,  whether  je  be  in  the  2  Cor.  13. 
^aith;  prove  your  own  selves.     Know  ye  not  your 
own  selves,  how  that  Jesus  Christ  is  in  you,  ex- 
jcept  ye  be  reprobates? 

Q.  Was  the  apostle  earnest,  that  this  inward 
birth  of  Christ  should  be  brought  forth  in  any? 

A.  My  little  children,   of  whom  I  travail  in  Gal.  4.19. 
birth  again,  until  Christ  be  formed  in  you. 

Q.  What  saith  the  same  apostle,  of  the  neces- 
sity of  this  inward  knowledge  of  Christ,  and  of 
(he  new  creature  beyond  the  outward? 

A.  Wherefore,  henceforth  know  we  no  man  af-  2  Cor.  5. 
ter  the  flesh;  yea,  tliough  we  have  known  Christ     '     ' 
after  the  flesh,   yet  now  henceforth  know  we  him 
no  more.     Therefore  if  any  man  be  in  Christ,  he- 
is  a  new  creature;  old  things  are  passed  away, 
behold  all  things  are  become  new. 

But  ye  have  not  so  learned  Christ;  if  so  be  that  Eph.  4.  20, 
ye  have  heard  him,  and  have  been  taught  by  him,  ^1.  22,  23, 
as  the  truth  is  in  Jesus:  that  ye  put  off,  concern- 
ing the  former  conversation,  the  old  man  which  is 
corrupt,  according  to  the  deceitful  lusts;  and  be 
renewed  in  the  spirit  of  your  mind;  and  that  ye 
put  on  the  new  man,  which  after  God  is  created 
in  righteousness  and  true  holiness. 

Q.  Is  this  Christ  within,  the  mystery  of  God 
and  hope  of  glory,  which  the  apostle  preached? 


£2  Barclay's  catechism.  i 

Col.  1.  A.  To  whom  God  would  make  known  what  is' 

27  28  I 

*  '  Ihe  ricjiea  of  the  glory  of  this  mystery  among  the. 
Gentileg;  which  is,  Christ  in  you  the  hope  of  glo- 
ry, whom  we  preach. 

Q.  Doth  the  apostle  any  where  else  press  the 
putting  on  of  this  new  birth?  [ 

RoTTi.  13.         A.  Put  ye  on  the  Lor<l  Jesus  Christ,  and  makcj 
34. 

no  provision  for  the  flesh,  to  fulfil  the  lusts  thereof. 

Q.  Doth  he  write  to  any  of  the  saints,  as  hav- 
ing put  off  the  old,  and  put  on  the  new  man? 
Cal  3  27        ^'  ^^^  **  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized 

into  Christ,  have  put  on  Christ. 
Col  3.  Seeing  that  ye  have  put  off  the    old  man   with 

f>.  10.  y^ig  deeds,  and  have  put  on  the  new  man,  which  is 

renewed   in  knowledge    after  the  image  of  him 
that  created  him. 

Q.  What  speaketh  Christ  himself,  of  the  neces- 
sity of  this  new  birtli? 
Johns.  3.       A.  Jesus  answered  and  said  unto  him,  Verily, 
verily,  1  say  unto  thee,  except  a  man  be  born 
again,  he  cannot  see  the  kingdom  of  God. 
Q.  Of  what  seed  cometh  this  birth? 
1  Peter  1         ^*  ^^^"S  ^o**"  again,  not  of  corruptible  seed, 
*3.  but  of  incorruptible,  by  the  word  of  God,  which 

liveth  and  abideth  for  ever. 

Q.  What  doth  the  apostle  Paul  witness  of  him- 
self concerning  this  new  life? 
Gal.  2.  20.       A.  I  am  crucified  with  ('hrist,  nevertheless  I 
live;  yet  not  I,  but  Christ  liveth  in  me. 

Q.  What  is  the  preaching  of  the  cross  of  Christ? 


Barclay's  cA.tEcttisM.  23 

y   A.  For  the  preaching  of  the  cross  is  to  them  1  Cor.  1. 
that    perish,    foolishness;    but  unto  us  that  arc 
saved,  it  is  the  power  of  God. 

Q.  What  effect  hath  this  cross  in  the  apostle.^ 
And  how  much  preftMreth  he  tlie  new  creature, 
tc  all  outward  and  visible  ordinances  and  obser- 
vances.^ 

A.  But  God  forbid  that  I  should  glory,  save  in  ^.^^  ^ 
the  cross  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  whom  the  1-^  l-J. 
vorld  is  crucified  unto  me,  and  I  unto  the  world: 
For  in  Jesus  Christ  neither  circumcision  availeth 
Uny  thing,  nor  uncircumcision,  but  a  new  creature. 

Q.  What  spcaketh  Christ  of  the  unity  of  the 
saints  with  him.^ 

A.  At  that  day  ye  shall  know  that  I  am  in  my  johnU.QO. 
Father,  anil  you  in  me,  and  I  in  you. 

Abide  in  me,  and  I  in  you;  as  the  branch  can-  Johnlo, 
not  boar  fruit  of  itself,  except  it  abide  in  the  vine,   '  ^' 
no  more  can  ye,  except  ye  abide  in  me:  I  am  the 
Vine,  ye  arc  the  branches;  he  that  abideth  in  me, 
and  I  in  him,  the  same  bringeth  forth  much  fruit; 
for  without  me  ye  can  do  nothing. 

Neither  pray  I  for  these  alone,  but   for  them  j^|,„  17 
also  which  shall  believe  in  me  through  their  word:  p^»  -1»  2-?, 
that  they  all   may  be  one;  as  thou,  Father,  art  in  " 
me,  and  I  in  thee,  that  they  also  may  be  one  in  us, 
that  the  world  may  believe  that  thou   hast   sent 
me.     And  the  glory  whicii  thou  gavestmc,  I  have 
given  them,  that  they  may  be  one,  even  as  we  arc 
one:  I  in  them,  and  thou  in  me,  that  they  may  be 


24  Barclay's  catechism. 

made  perfect  in  one,  and  that  the  world  may 
know  that  thou  hast  sent  me,  and  hast  loved  them 
as  thou  hast  loved  me. 

Q.  What  saith  the  apostle  Paul  to  this  purpose? 

Ileb.  2, 11.      -^-  For  both  he  that  sanctifies,  and  thej  tliat 

are  sanctified,  are  all  of  one;  for  which  cause  he 

is  not  ashamed  to  call  them  brethren.       ^ 

Q.  What  saith  the  apostle  Peter? 

2  Peter  1.  A.  Whereby  are  given  unto  us,  exceeding 
great  and  precious  promises,  that  by  these  you 
might  be  partakers  of  the  divine  nature,  having 
escaped  the  corruption  that  is  in  the  world  through 
lust. 


CHAP.  V. 

Concerning  the  light  wherewith  Jesus  Christ  hath 

enlightened  every  man:  the  univerzality  and 

sufficiency  of   God'^s  grace,    to  all  the 

world,  made  manifest  therein. 

Q.  Wherein  consists  the  love  of  God  towards 
fallen  and  lost  man? 

John  3. 10.  A.  For  God  so  loved  the  world,  that  he  gave 
his  only  begotten  Son,  that  whosoever  believeth  in 
him  should  not  perish,  but  have  everlasting  life. 

1  John  4.  In  this  was  manifested  the  love  of  God  towards 
US,  because  that  God  sent  his  only  begotten  Son 
into  the  world,  that  we  might  live  through  him. 

Q.  What  is  intended  here  by  the  world?  all 
^nd  every  man,  or  only  a  few? 


Barclay's  catechism.  So 

A.  But  we  see  Jesus,   who  was  made  a  little  Heb.  2.  9. 
lower  than  the  angels,  for  the  suffering  of  death, 
crowned  with  glory  and  honor;  that  he  by  the 
'grace  of  God  should  taste  death  for  every  man. 

And  if  any  man  sin,  we  have  an  advocate  with  1  John  2.. 
the  Father,  Jesus  Christ  the  righteous,   and  he  is    * 
the  propitiation  for  our  sins,  and   not   for  ours 
only,  but  also  for  the  sins  of  the  whole  world. 

Q.  Methinks  the  apostle  John  is  very  plain 
there,  in  mentioning  the  whole  world,  which 
must  be  not  only  the  saints,  but  all  others,  seeing 
he  distinguished  the  world  from  himself,  and  all 
the  saints  to  whom  he  then  wrote:  What  saith 
Paul  elsewhere  in  this  matter? 

A.  Christ  in  you,  the  hope  of  glory,  whom  we  Col.  I. 
preach,  warning  every  man,  and  teaching  every 
man  in  all  wisdom.,  that  we  may  present  every 
man  perfect  in  Christ  Jesus. 

I  exhort  therefore,  that  first  of  all,  supplica- 1  Tim.  2. 
tions,  prayers,  intercessions,  and  giving  of  "^  '  ' 
thanks,  be  made  for  all  men:  for  this  is  good  and 
acceptable  in  the  sight  of  God  our  Saviour,  who 
will  have  all  men  to  be  saved,  and  to  come  to  the 
knowledge  of  the  truth;  who  gave  himself  a  ran- 
som for  all,  to  be  testified  in  due  time. 

Q.  What  is  the  apostle  Peter's  testimony  in 
this? 

A.  The  Lord  is  not  slack  concerning  his  prom-  2  Peter?, 
ise,   (as  some  men  count  slackness)  but  is  long-  ^• 
suffering  to  us-wardj  not  willing  that  any  should 

c 


26  Barclay's  catechisx. 

perish,  but  that  all  should  come  to  repentance. 
Q.  Are  there  anj  more  scripture  passages  that 
prove  this  thing? 

Ezek.  S3.  A.  Say  unto  them,  as  F  live,  saith  the  Lord 
God,  I  have  no  pleasure  in  the  death  of  the  wick- 
ed, but  that  the  wicked  turn  from  his  way  and  live. 

Psalm  145,       The  Lord  is  gracious  and  full  of  compassion; 

*•  ^*  slow  to  anger,  and  of  great  mercy.     The  Lord  is 

good  to  all,  and  his  tender  mercies  are  over  all 
his  works. 

2  Cor.  5.  To  wit,  that  God  was  in  Christ,  reconciling  the 
world  unto  himself. 

Q.  Seeing  then  by  these  scriptures,  it  appears 
that  the  love  of  God  is  held  out  to  all,  that  all 
might  have  been,  or  may  be  saved  by  Christ;  what 
is  to  be  judged  of  those  who  assert,  that  God  nor 
Christ  never  purposed  love  nor  salvation  to  a 
great  part  of  mankind,  and  that  the  coming  and 
sufferings  of  Christ  never  were  intended,  nor 
could  be  useful  to  their  justification;  but  will  and 
must  be  effectual  for  their  condemnation,  even 
according  to  God's  purpose;  who  from  their  very 
infancy,  to  their  grave,  withheld  from  them  all 
means  of  salvation?  What  saith  the  scripture  to 
such? 

John  3. 17.  A.  For  God  sent  not  his  Son  into  the  world  to 
condemn  the  world,  but  that  the  world  through 
him  might  be  saved. 

John  12.  1  am  come  a  light  into  the  world,  that  whoso- 

ever beiieveth  on  me,  should  not  abide  in  dark- 


Barclay's  catechism.  27 

liess.  And  if  any  man  hear  my  words,  and  believe 
not,  I  judge  him  not;  for  I  came  not  to  judge  the 
world,  but  to  save  the  world. 

Q.  From  what  scripture  then  come  these  men 
to  wrest  an  opinion  so  contrary  to  truth? 

A.  For  the  children  being  not  yet  born,  neither  Romans  9. 
having  done  any  good   or  evil,   that  the  purpose     *     *     * 
of  God  according  to  election  might  stand,  not  of 
works,  but  of  him   that  calleth,  it  was  said  unto 
her,  the  elder  shall   serve   the  younger;  as  it  is 
written,  Jacob  have  I  loved,  but  Esau  have  I  hated. 

Q.  I  perceive  in  that  scripture  it  was  only  said, 
before  the  children  were  born,  the  elder  shall 
serve  the  younger;  these  other  words  (Jacob  have 
I  loved,  Esau  have  I  hated)  are  mentioned  out  of 
the  prophet  Malachi,  who  wrote  them  many  hun- 
dred years  after  both  were  dead:  doth  not  the 
scripture  mention  any  other  cause  of  God's  hating 
Esau,  than  merely  his  decree?  What  saith  the 
same  apostle  elsewhere? 

A.  Lest  there  be  any  fornicator,  or  profane  per-  „  ^  - 
son,  as  Esau,  who  for  one  morsel  of  meat  sold  his  16, 17. 
birthright:  for  ye  know  how  that  afterward  when 
he  would  have  inherited  the  blessing,  he  was  re- 
jected. 

Q.  But  seeing  that  such  alledge,  that  it  is  be- 
cause of  Adam's  sin,  that  many,  even  children, 
are  damned;  doth  not  the  scripture  aver,  that  the 
death  of  Christ  was  as  large  to  heal,  as  Adam's 
sin  could  be  to  condemn? 


28  eauclay's  catechism. 

Romans  5.  A.  For  if  through  the  offence  of  one,  many  be 
dead,  rauch  more  the  grace  of  God,  and  the  gift 
by  grace,  which  is  by  one  man,  Jesus  Christ. — 
Therefore  as  by  the  offence  of  one,  judgment  came 
upon  all  men  to  condemnationj  even  so  by  the 
righteousness  of  one,  the  free  gift  came  upon  all 
men  unto  justification  of  life. 

Q.  That  proves  abundantly,  that  Christ's  death 
is  of  sufficient  extent,  to  make  up  any  hurt 
Adam's  sin  brought  upon  mankind:  what  is  thea 
the  cause  of  condemnation? 

John  3. 18.  A.  He  that  believeth  on  him  is  not  condemned^ 
but  he  that  believeth  not,  is  condemned  already, 
because  he  hath  not  believed  in  the  name  of  the 
only  begotten  Son  of  God. 

2  Thes.  2.  And  with  all  deceivableness  of  unrighteousness 
'  *  'in  tliem  that  perish,  because  they  received  not  the 
love  of  the  truth,  that  they  might  be  saved.  And 
for  this  cause  God  shall  send  them  strong  delu- 
sion, that  they  shall  believe  a  lie,  that  they  all 
might  be  damned  who  believe  not  the  truth,  but 
had  pleasure  in  unrighteousness. 

Q.  Seeing  it  is  of  a  truth,  according  to  the 
scripture's  testimony,  that  God  has  purposed  love 
and  mercy  to  all,  in  the  appearance  of  his  Sou 
Jesus  Christi  is  the  gospel  or  glad  tidings  of  this 
salvation,  brought  nigh  unto  all,  by  which  they 
are  put  into  a  capacity  of  receiving  the  grace, 
^nd  being  saved  by  it? 

Col.  1.  23.       A.  If  ye  continue  in  the  faith  grounded  and 


Barclay's  catechism.  29 

Settled,  and  be  not  moved  away  from  the  hope  of 
the  gospel,  which  ye  have  heard,  and  which  was 
preached  to  every  creature  which  is  under  heaven, 
whereof  I  Paul  am  made  a  minister. 

Q.  What  is  the  gospel? 

A.  I  am  not  ashamed  of  the  gospel;  for  it  is  Rom.  1. 16, 
the  power  of  God  unto  salvation,   to  every  one 
that  believeth. 

Q.  Is  the  gospel  hid? 

A.  If  our  gospel  be  hid,  it  is  hid  to  them  that  2Cor.4. 
are  lost,  in  whom  the  God  of  this  world    hath^>'^* 
blinded  the  minds  of  them  which  believe  not,  lest 
the  light  of  the  glorious  gospel  of  Christ  who  is 
the  image  of  God  should  shine  unto  them. 

Q.  Is  the  light  then  come  into  the  world?  and 
are  not  men  condemned  because  they  love  it  not, 
and  not  because  it  is  hid  from  them? 

A.  And  this  is  the  condemnation,  that  light  is  John  3. 19. 
come  into  the  world,  and  men  love  darkness  ra- 
ther than  light. 

Q.  Why  do  they  so? 

A.  Because  their  deeds  are  evil.  John  3.  19. 

Q.  Is  every  man  enlightened  by  this  light? 

A.  He  was  not  that  light,  but  was  sent  to  bear  johnl.8  9. 
witness   of  that  light,  that  was  the  true  light, 
which  enlighteneth  every  man  that  cometh  into 
the  world. 

Q.  Doth  this  light  discover  all  things? 

A.  All  things  that  are  reproved  are  made  man-  Eph.  5. 13. 

C2 


30  Barclay's  catechism. 

ifest  by  the  light;  for  whatsoever  doth  make  man- 
ifest, is  light. 

Q.  Do  evil  men  preach  up  this  light,  or  mind  it? 
John  3.20.      A.  Every  one  that  doth  evil,  hateth   the  light, 
neither  cometh  to  the  light,  lest  his  deeds  should 
be  reproved. 
Job  24.  13.      They  are  of  those  that  rebel  against  the  light. 

Q.  Do  good  men  love  it  and  follow  i(.^ 
John 3.  21.      A.  He  that  doeth  truth,   cometh  to  the  light, 
that  his  deeds  may  be  made  manifest,  that  they 
are  wrought  in  God. 

Q.  What  benefit  doth  redound  to  such  as  [ove 
the  light,  and  walk  in  it? 
2  John  1,7,  A.  If  we  walk  in  the  light,  as  he  is  in  the  light, 
we  have  fellowship  one  with  another,  and  the 
blood  of  Jesus  Christ,  his  Son,  cleanseth  us  from 
all  sin. 

Q.  Doth  Christ  command  to  take  heed  to  the 
light? 

John  12.         A.  While  ye  have  the  light,  believe  in    the 
36,  .  "^  s     ' 

light,  that  ye  may  be  the  children  of  the  light. 

Q.  Were  the  apostles  commanded  to  turn  peo- 
ple to  the  light? 
Acts  26.  A.  Delivering  thee  from  the  people,  and  from 

^'  '  the  Gentiles,  unto  whom  now  I  send  thee,  to  open 
their  eyes,  and  to  turn  them  from  darkness  unto 
light,  and  from  the  power  of  Satan  unto  God, 
that  they  may  receive  forgiveness  of  sins,  and  in- 
heritance among  them  which  are  sanctified, 
through  faith  that  is  in  me. 


31 

Q.  Doth  this  light  abide  with  every  man  all 
his  life  time,  in  order  to  save,  or  only  during  the 
day  of  his  visitation? 

A.  Yet   a  little  while  is  the  light  with  you;  Johnl2.35. 
walk  while  ye  have  the  light,  lest  darkness  come 
upon  you. 

Again,  he  limiteth  a  certain  day,  saying  in  Da-  Heb.  4.  7. 
vid,  To-day  after  so  long  a  time;  as  it  is  said,  To- 
day, if  ye  will  hear  his  voice,  harden  not  your 
hearts. 

Q.  How  can  it  be  proved,  that  there  is  a  day, 
wherein  people  may  know  things  concerning  their 
peace,  which  afterwards  may  be  hid  from  them? 

A.  And  when  he  was  come  near,  he  beheld  the  Luke  19. 
city,   and  wept  over  it,    saying,    if  thou  hadsf*^*^^* 
known,  even  thou,  at   least  in  this  thy  day,   the 
things  which  belong  unto  thy  peace!  but  now  they 
are  hid  from  thine  eyes. 

Q.  Is  there  any  other  scripture  proof  of  the 

Lord's  willingness  to  gather  a  people  who  would 

not,  and  therefore  were  condemned? 

A.  O  Jerusalem,   Jerusalem!    thou  that  killest  Mat.23.  37, 
'  Luke  13  34 

the  prophets,  and  stonest  them  which  are  sent  unto 

thee:  how  often  would  I  have  gathered  thy  chil- 
dren together,  even  as  a  hen  gathereth  her  chick- 
ens under  her  wings,  and  ye  would  not? 

Then  his  Lord,  after  that  he  had   called  him,  Mat.  18. 

n^     oo     04 

said  unto  him,  O  thou  wicked  servant,  I  forgave     '     '  '  ' 
thee  all  that  debt,  because  thou   desiredst  me: 
Shouldest  not  thou  also  have  had  compassion  on 


32  Barclay's  catechism.  I 

thy  fellow  servant,  even  as  I  had  pity  on  thee? 
and  his  Lord  was  wroth,  and  delivered  him  to  the 
tormentors,  till  he  should  pay  all  that  was  due 
unto  him. 
ActslS.  46.  Then  Paul  and  Barnabas  waxed  bold,  and  said, 
it  was  necessary  that  the  word  of  God  should  first 
have  been  spoken  to  you;  but  seeing  ye  put  it 
from  you,  and  judge  yourselves  unworthy  of  ev- 
erlasting life,  lo  we  turn  to  the  Gentiles. 

Proverbsl.      Because  1  have  called,  and  ye  refused;  1  have 

o^  25  26 

"  '     '     '    stretched  out  my  hand,  and  no  man  regarded:  but 

ye  have  set  at  nought  all  my  counsel,  and  would 
none  of  my  reproof:  I  also  will  laugh  at  your  ca- 
lamity, I  will  mock  when  your  fear  cometh. 

Jer.  18.  And  at  what  instant  I  shall  speak  concerning  a 

'     '  nation,  and  concerning  a  kingdom,  to  build,  and 

to  plant  it:  if  it  do  evil  in  my  sight  that  it  obey 

not  my  voice,   then  will  I  repent  of  the  good 

"wherewith  I  said  I  would  benefit  them. 

Q.  Doth  God's  Spirit  strive  then  for  a  seasoHj 
and  afterwards  forbear? 

Gen.  6.  3.  A.  And  the  Lord  said,  my  Spirit  shall  not  al- 
ways strive  with  man. 

Q.  May  it  then  be  resisted? 

Acts  7. 51.  A.  Ye  stiff-necked  and  uncircumcised  in  heart 
and  ears,  ye  do  always  resist  the  Holy  Ghost;  as 
your  fathers  did,  so  do  ye. 

Rom.  1. 18.  For  the  wrath  of  God  is  revealed  from  heaven 
against  all  ungodliness  and  unrighteousness  of 
men,  who  hold  the  truth  in  unrighteousness. 


barolay's  oateohism.  33 

Q.  Hath  God  manifested  to  man  that  which 
naj  be  known  of  himself? 

A.  That  which  may  be  known  of  God,  is  mani-  Rom.  1.19. 
eat  in  them;  for  God  hath  shewed  it  unto  them, 

Q.  Is  then  this  light  or  seed  sown  in  the  heart 
)f  evil  men? 

A.    And  he  spake  many  things  to  them  in  par-  Mat.  13. 
ibles;  Behold,  a  sower  went  forth   to  sow,  and^'^»^'^' 
when  he  sowed,  some  seeds  fell  by  the  way-side, 
&c.     Some  fell  among  stony  places,  &c.     And 
some  fell  among  thorns,  &c. 

Q.  Are  these  places,  where  the  seed  is  said  to 

have  fallen,  understood  of  the  hearts  of  men? 

A.  Hear  ye  therefore  the  parable  of  the  sower,  ^^at.  13. 

18  19 
When  any  one  heareth  the  word  of  the  kingdom, 

and  understandeth  it  not,  then  cometh  the  wicked 

one,  and  catcheth  away  that  which  was  sown  ia 

his  heart;  this  is  he  which  received  the  seed  by 

the  way-side,  &c. 

Q.  Is  this  seed  small  in  its  first  appearance? 

A.  The  kingdom  of  heaven  is  like  to  a  grain  of  Mat.  13. 
mustard-seed,  which  a  man  took  and  sowed  in  his     ' 
field,  which  indeed  is  the  least  of  all  seeds. 

Q.  Forasmuch  as  many  understand  not  this, 
under  the  notion  and  appellation  of  light  or  seed, 
it  being  quite  another  dialect  than  the  common; 
though  I  must  needs  confess,  it  is  the  very  lan- 
guage of  the  scriptures;  is  a  saving  manifestation 
of  the  Spirit  given  unto  all? 


34  Barclay's  catechism. 

1  Cor.  12.       A.  The  manifestation  of  the  Spirit  is  given  to|i 
every  man  to  profit  withal?  ! 

Q.  Sure,  if  it  be  to  profit  withal,  it  must  be  in! 
order  to  save;  for  if  it  were  not  useful,  yea,  sufii-; 
cient  to  save,  what  profit  could  it  be  of?  but  in 
regard   some  speak  of  a  grace  that  is  common, 
and  of  a  grace  that  is  saving,  is  there  such  a  grace!  i 
common  unto  all,  as  brings  salvation?  V. 

Titus  2. 11.  A.  The  g;race  of  God  that  brings  salvation,^ 
hath  appeared  unto  all  men. 

Q.  That  which  brinj^s  salvation  must  needs  be 
saving;  what  doth  that  grace  teach  us?  j 

Titus 2. 22.  A.  Teaching  us,  that  denying  ungodliness  and  I 
wordly  lusts,  we  should  live  soberly,  righteously  \ 
and  godly,  in  this  present  world. 

Q.  Certainly  that  which  teacheth  both  right- 
eousness and  godliness  must  be  sufficient;  for 
therein  consisteth  the  whole  duty  of  man:  What 
saith  the  apostle  elsewhere  of  this  instructor? 

Acts20.  32.      -^^  ^^^  now,  brethren,  I  commend  you  to  God, 
and  to  the  word  of  his  grace,  which  is  able  to 
build  you  up,  and  to  give  you  an    inheritance 
among  all  those  that  are  sanctified. 
Q.  What  is  the  word  of  God? 

Hebrews  4.      A.  The  word    of  God  is  quick  and  powerful, 

12,  lo.  ^^^  sharper  than  any  two-edged  sword,  piercing 
even  to  the  dividing  asunder  of  soul  and  spirit, 
and  of  the  joints  and  marrow,  and  is  a  discerner 
of  the  thoughts  and  intents  of  the  heart.  Neither 
is  there  any  creature  that  is  not  manifest  in  his 


BARCLAY'S    CATECHISM.  '    '     35 

Sigiit,  but  all  things  are  naked  and   open  to  the 
C)'es  of  him  with  Whom  we  have  to  do. 

Q.  Ought  we  to  take  heed  to  this  word? 

A.  We  have  also  a  more  sure  word  of  prophe-  2  Peter 
ey,  whereunto  ye  do  well  that  ye  take  heed,  as 
unto  a  light  that  shineth  in  a  dark  place,  until  the 
day  dawn,  and  the  day-star  arise  in  your  hearts. 

Q.  I  perceive  the  scriptures  are  very  clear, 
both  concerning  the  universality  and  sufficiency 
of  this  light,  seed,  grace  and  word  of  God;  but  is 
this  word  nigh  or  afar  off,  inward  or  outward? 

A.  Say  not  in  thine  heart,  who  shall  ascend  in-  RomanslO. 

fi   7  8 

to  heaven?  that  is,  to  bring  Christ  down  from  ' 
above.  Or,  who  shall  descend  into  the  deep? 
that  is,  to  bring  up  Christ  again  from  the  dead. — 
But  what  saith  it?  the  word  is  nigh,  in  thy  mouth 
and  in  thy  heart;  that  is  the  word  of  faith  which 
we  preach. 

Q.  That  is  clear,  as  to  the  word;  is  there  any 
scripture  speaks  of  the  light's  being  inward? 

A.  God,  who  commanded  the  light  to  shine  out  2  Cor.  4. 
of  darkness,  hath  shined  in  our  hearts,  to  give  the    ' 
light  of  the  knowledge  of  the  glory  of  God  in  the 
face  of  Jesus  Christ.     But  we  have  this  treasure 
in  earthen  vessels,    tliat  the  excellency  of  the 
power  may  be  of  God,  and  not  of  us. 

Q.  But  seeing  it  is  also  called  the  seed  of  the 

kingdom,  is  the  kingdom  of  God  also  within? 

A.  The  kingdom  of  God   comes  not  with  ob-  Luke  17. 

20  21 
iservation^   neither  shall  they  say,  lo  here,  or  lo     * 


S6  BARCLAY  S    CATECHISM. 

there)  for  behold,  the  kingdom  of  God  is  within 
you. 


CHAP.  vr. 

Concerning  Faith,  Justification,  and  Works. 

Q.  What  is  faith? 

Heb.  11. 1.      A.  Faith  is  the  substance  of  things  hoped  foi 

and  the  evidence  of  things  not  seen. 

Q.  Is  faith  of  absolute  necessity? 

Heb.  11.  6.      ■^'  Without  faith  it  is  impossible  to  please  hii 

for  he  that  cometh   to  God,  must  believe  that  h« 

is,  and  that  he  is  a  rewarder  of  them  that  dili-j 

gently  seek  him. 


Q.  Are  we  justified  by  faith 


Gal.  3.24.        A.  Wherefore  the  law  was  our  school-master  | 

to  bring  us  unto  Christ,  that  we  might  be  justified  i 

by  faith.  j 

Q.  What  is  the  nature  of  this  faith  that  availeth  | 

to  justification?  I 

Gal.  5.  6.         A.  For  in  Jesus  Christ,  neither  circumcision  I 
availeth  any  thing,  nor  uncircumcision,  but  faith 
which  worketh  by  love. 

Q.  Are  works  then  necessary  to  justification, 
as  well  as  faith? 

James  2.         A.  But  wilt  thou  know,  O  vain  man,  that  faith 

"        "  *     without  works  is  dead?     W^as  not  Abraham  our^ 
father  justified  by  works,  when   he  had  offered 
Isaac  his  son  upon  the  altar?  Seestthou  how  faith 
wrought  with  his  works,  and  by  works  was  faith ' 


BARCLAY'S    CATECHISM.  b/ 

iiiade  perfect?  And  the  scripture  was  fulfilled, 
which  saith,  Abraham  believed  God,  and  it  was 
imputed  to  him  for  righteousness;  he  was  called 
the  friend  of  God.  Ye  see  then  how  that  by 
■works  a  man  is  justified,  and  not  by  faith  only. 

Q.  If  then  both  be  equally  required  in  justifi- 
cation, what  are  these  works  which  the  apostle 
excludes  so  much? 

A.  By  the  deeds  of  the  law,  there  shall  no  Rom.  3. 20. 
flesh  be  justified  in  his  sight. 

Q.  But  though  we  be  not  justified  by  the  deeds 
of  the  law,  is  not  this  to  exclude  boasting,  that 
the  grace  of  God  may  be  exalted? 

A.  For  by  grace  are  ye  saved,  through  faith,  Eph.  2. 
and  that  not  of  yourselves,  it  is  the  gift  of  God;  ^»  ^>  ^^' 
not  of  works,  lest  any  man  should  boast,  for  we 
are  his  workmanship,  created  in  Christ  Jesus  unto 
good  works. 

Q.  Are  even  the  works  which  are  performed  by 
grace  excluded?  Are  we  never  said  to  be  saved 
or  justified  by  them? 

A.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we  Titus  3. 

K   (\    "7 

have  done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  '  * 
us,  by  the  washing  of  regeneration,  and  renewing 
of  the  Holy  Ghost,  which  he  shed  on  us  abun- 
dantly, through  Jesus  Christ  our  Saviour;  that 
being  justified  by  his  grace,  we  should  be  made 
heirs,  according  to  the  hope  of  eternal  life. 

Q.  I  perceive  then,  that  to  be  justified  by  grace, 
is  to  be  justified  or  saved  by  regeneration j  which 
D 


8.9 


38  BARCLAY'S    CATECHISM. 

cannot  exclude  the  works  wrought  by  grace  and 
by  the  Spirit;  how  doth  the  apostle  add  in  the  next 
Terse,  for  the  maintaining  this  against  those  that 
cavil  about  the  law? 

Titus  3.  A.  This  is  a  faithful  saying,  and  these  things  I 

will  that  thou  affirm  constantly;  that  they  which  j 
have  believed  in  God,  might  be  careful  to  maintain  j 
good  works.  These  things  are  good  and  profitable  t 
unto  men.  But  avoid  foolish  questions,  and  gen- 
ealogies, and  contentions,  and  strivings  about  the  j 
law;  for  they  are  unprofitable  and  vain.  ^ 

Q.  Doth  the  apostle  Paul,  that  is  so  much  a-  i 
gainst  justification  by  the  works  of  the  law,  speak  j 
any  where  else  of  being  justified  by  the  Spirit?       i 

1  Cor.  6.         A,  But  ye  are  washed,  but  ye  are  sanctified,  I 
but  ye  are  justified  in  the  name  of  the  Lord  Je- 
sus, and  by  the  Spirit  of  our  God. 

Q.  But  since  the  law  gives  not  power  nor  abil- 
ity to  obey,  and  so  falls  short  of  justification,  is 
there  no  power  under  the  gospel,  by  which  the 
righteousness  of  the  law  comes  to  be  fulfilled  in- 
wardly? 

Rom.  8.  A.  For  what  the  law  could  not  do,  in  that  it 

^''*'  was  weak  through  the  flesh,  God  sending  his  own 

Son  in  the  likeness  of  sinful  flesh,  and  for  sin, 
condemned  sin  in  the  flesh:  that  the  righteousness 
of  the  law  might  be  fulfilled  in  us,  who  walk  not 
after  tlie  flesh,  but  after  the  Spirit. 

Q.  Seeing  then  there  is  a  power  in  the  Spirit, 


F\ 


Barclay's  catechism.  39 

are  not  works  through  it,  a  condition  upon  which 
life  is  proposed  under  the  new  covenant? 

A.  For  if  ye  live  after  the  flesh,  ye  shall  die;  Rom.  8. 13. 
but  if  ye  through  the  Spirit,  do  mortify  the  deeds 
of  the  body,  ye  shall  live.- 

Q.  Do  not  ihe  apostles  then  frequently  propose 
life  to  people,  upon  condition  of  repentance  and 
(Other  works? 

•    A.  Repent  ye  therefore,  and  be  converted,  that  Acts  3. 19, 
your  sins  may  be  blotted  out. 

And  if  children,  then  heirs;  heirs  of  God,  and  Rom.  8.17, 
joint  heirs   with  Christ;  if  so  be   that  we  suffer 
with  him,  that  we  may  also  be  glorified  together. 

It  is  a  faithful  saying:  for  if  we  be  dead   with  2 Tim.  2. 
him,  we  shall  also  live  with  him;  if  we  suffer,  we  ^^* 
shall  also   reign  with  him.     If  a  man  therefore 
purge  himself  from  these,  he  shall  be  a  vessel  unto 
honor,  sanctified  and  meet  for  the  master's  use, 
and  prepared  unto  every  good  work. 

Remember,  therefore,   from  whence   thou   art  Rev.  2. 5. 
fallen;  and  repent,  and  do  the  first  works;  or  else 
I  will  come  unto  thee  quickly,  and  will  remove 
thy  candlestick  out  of  his  place,  except  thou  re- 
pent. 

Q.  It  appears  clearly  by  these  passages,  that 
the  apostle  excludes  only  our  righteousness,  which 
he  elsewhere  explains,  as  being  the  righteousnesi 
of  the  law,  from  being  necessary  to  justification, 
and  not  such  works  as  the  law  of  the  Spirit  of 
life  leads  to,  and  are  not  so  much  ours  as  Christ 


40  BARCLAY  S    CATECHISM. 

in  us;  are  not  such  good  works  rewarded,  though 
thej  require  no  absolute  merit,  as  being  the  fruits 
of  free  grace;  yet  doth  not  God  judge  according 
to  them,  and  maj  they  not  be  said  to  have  a  re- 
ward? 

EzekiellS.      A.  But  if  a  man  be  iust,  and  do  that  which  is 
5  6  7  8  9,  J       ' 

'      '  '  '  lawful  and  right,   and  hath  not  eaten  upon  the 

mountains,  neither  hath  lifted  up  his  eyes  to  the 
idols  of  the  house  of  Israel,  neither  hath  defiled 
his  neighbor's  wife,  neither  hath  come  near  to  a 
menstruous  woman;  and  liath  not  oppressed  any, 
but  hath  restored  to  the  debtor  his  pledge,  hath 
spoiled  none  by  violence,  hath  given  his  bread  to 
the  hungry,  and  hath  covered  the  naked  with  a 
garment:  he  that  hath  not  given  forth  upon  usury, 
neither  hath  taken  any  increase;  that  hath  with- 
drawn his  hand  from  iniquity,  hath  executed  true 
judgment  between  man  and  man,  hath  walked  in 
my  statutes,  and  hath  kept  my  judgments,  to  deal 
truly;  he  is  just,  he  shall  surely  live,  saith  the 
Lord  God. 

For  the  Son  of  man  shall  come  in  the  glory  of 
his  Father,  with  his  angels,  and  then  he  shall  re* 
ward  every  man  according  to  his  works. 

Then  Peter  opened  his  mouth  and  said,  of  a 
truth  I  perceive  that  God  is  no  respecter  of  per- 
sons: but  in  every  nation,  he  that  feareth  him,    , 
and  worketh  righteousness,  is  accepted  with  him.     1 

The  righteous  judgment  of  God;  who  will  ren- 
der to  every  man  according  to  his  deeds:  to  them,    i 


Barclay's  catechism.  41 

who  by  patient  continuance  in  well  doing,  seek 
for  glory,  and  honor,  and  immortality,  eternal 
life:  but  glory,  honor,  and  peace,  to  every  man 
that  worketh  good;  to  the  Jew  first,  and  also  to 
the  Gentile. 

For  we  must  all  appear  before  the  judgment  2  cor.  5. 
seat  of  Christ,  that  every  one  may  receive  the  ^^* 
things  done  in  his  body,  according  to  that  he  hath 
done,  whether  it  be  good  or  bad. 

Which  is  a  manifest  token  of  the  righteous  2  Thes.  1, 
judgment  of  God,  that  ye  may  be  counted  worthy  ^• 
of  the  kingdom  of  God,  for  which  ye  also  suffer. 

But  whoso  looketh  into  the  perfect  law  of  lib-  james  1, 
erty,  and  continueth  therein,  he  being  not  a  for-  25. 
getful  hearer,  but  a  doer  of  the  work,  this  man 
shall  be  blessed  in  his  deed. 

Cast  not  away  therefore  your  confidence,  which  Heb.10.35. 
hath  great  recompense  of  reward. 

And  if  ye  call  on  the  Father,  who  without  res-  iPeterl. 
pect  of  persons,  judgeth  according  to  every  man's  ^^' 
work,  pass  the  time  of  your  sojourning  here  in 
fear. 

And  behold  I  come  quickly,  and  my  reward  is  Rev.22. 12. 
with  me,  to  give  to  every  man  according  as  his 
work  shall  be.  Blessed  are  they  that  do  his  com- 
mandments, that  they  may  have  right  to  the  tree 
of  life,  and  may  enter  in  through  the  gates  into 
the  city. 

Q.  It  should  seem  that  the  purpose  of  God,  in 
sending  his  Son  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ;  was  not 
D2 


42  BARCLAY  S    CATECHISJf. 

simply  to  save  man  by  an  imputative  righteousness 
altogether  without  them;  but  also  by  the  washing 
of  regeneration,    or    an    inward    righteousness: 
What  saith  the  scripture  further  of  this? 
Mat.  1.21.       A.  And  thou  shalt  call  his  name  Jesus,  for  he 

shall  save  his  people  from  their  sins. 
Titus  2.  Looking  for  that  blessed  hope,  and  the  glorious 

^  '  ^^'  appearing  of  the  great  God,  and  our  Saviour  Je- 
sus Christ,  who  gave  himself  for  us,  that  he  might 
redeem  us  from  all  iniquity,  and  purify  unto  him- 
self a  peculiar  people,  zealous  of  good  works. 

CHAP.   All. 

Concerning  Ferjection^  or  Freedom  from  Sin, 

Q.  I  perceive  then  by  all  these  scriptures  afore- 
mentioned, that  Christ,  as  well  as  he  hath  pur- 
chased pardon  for  our  sins,  hath  also  obtained 
poy^  er  by  which  we  may  even  here  be  cleansed 
from  the  filth  of  them:  May  we  expect  then  in 
this  life  to  be  freed  from  the  dominion  of  sin? 
Eom.  6. 14.      A.  For  sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over  you. 

Q.  For  w^hat  reason? 
Rom.  6.14.      A.  For  ye  are  not  under  the  law,  but  under 
grace. 

Q.  How  cometh  the  apostle  then  to  cry  out  and 
complain  of  sin,  saying,  w^ho  shall  deliver  me 
from  the  body  of  this  death?  Doth  he  speak  that 
as  a  condition  always  permanent  to  him  and  ether 


Barclay's  catechism.  43 

saints,  or  onlj  that  which  he  had  passed  through? 
AVhat  saith  he  afterwards? 

A.  There  is  therefore  now  no  condemnation  to  Romans  8. 
them  which  are  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  walk  not  af-  lj2.3oto39. 
ter  the  flesh,  but  after  the  Spirit.  For  the  law  of 
the  Spirit  of  life  in  Christ  Jesus,  hath  made  me 
free  from  the  law  of  sin  and  death.  Who  shall 
separate  us  from  the  love  of  Christ?  Shall  tribu- 
lation, or  distress,  or  persecution,  or  famine,  or 
nakedness,  or  peril,  or  sword?  (As  it  is  written, 
For  thy  sake  we  are  killed  all  the  day  long:  we 
are  counted  as  sheep  for  the  slaughter.)  Nay,  in 
all  these  things  we  are  more  than  conquerors 
through  him  that  loved  us.  For  1  am  persuaded, 
that  neither  death,  nor  life,  nor  angels,  nor  prin- 
cipalities, nor  powers,  nor  things  present,  nor 
things  to  come,  nor  height,  nor  depth,  nor  any  o- 
ther  creature,  shall  be  able  to  separate  us  from 
the  love  of  God,  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus  our  Lord, 

Q.  What  saith  that  apostle  then  unto  such,  who 
taking  occasion  from  his  words,  should  plead  for 
continuance  in  sin  for  term  of  life,  and  think  to 
be  saved  by  the  imputative  righteousness  of 
Christ,  as  being  under  grace? 

A.  What  shall  we  say  then?  Shall  we  continue  Romans  6. 
;  in  sin,  that  grace  may  abound?     God  forbid.  ^>  ^• 

i    What  then?     Shall  we  sin,  because  we  are  not  Rora.  6. 15, 
under  the  law,  but  under  grace?     God  forbid? 

Q.  Is  not  the  apostle  then  so  far  from  suppo- 
sing that  condition,  of  being  always  under  sin,  to 


44  BARCLAY'S    CATECHISlVf. 

be  his  own  constant  condition,  or  that  of  all  the 
saints,  that  he  even  supposes  many  of  the  then| 
church  of  Rome,  to  whom  he  wrote,  to  he  free  of  j 
it?  How  bespeaketh  he  them,  as  in  relation  to 
this  matter? 
Romans  6.  A.  How  shall  we  that  are  dead  to  sin,  live  any 
7-  11  ^12*  'onger  therein?  Know  ye  not,  that  so  many  of  us. 
13;  16to23.  as  were  baptized  into  Jesus  Christ,  were  baptized  i 
into  his  death?  Therefore,  we  are  buried  with  him 
by  baptism  into  death;  that  like  as  Christ  was 
raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory  of  the  Fa- 
ther, even  so  we  also  should  walk  in  newness  of 
life.  For  if  we  have  been  planted  together  in  the 
likeness  of  his  death,  we  shall  be  also  in -the 
likeness  of  his  resurrection;  knowing  this,  that 
our  old  man  is  crucified  with  him,  that  the  body 
of  sin  might  be  destroyed,  that  henceforth  we 
should  not  serve  sin.  For  he  that  is  dead,  is  freed 
from  sin.  Likewise  reckon  ye  also  yourselves  to 
be  dead  indeed  unto  sin;  but  alive  unto  God, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Let  not  sin  there- 
fore reign  in  your  mortal  body,'  that  ye  sl.ould 
obey  it  in  the  lusts  thereof.  Neither  yield  ye 
your  members  as  instruments  of  unrighteousness 
unto  sin;  but  yield  yourselves  unto  God,  as  those 
that  are  alive  from  the  dead;  and  your  members 
as  instruments  of  righteousness  unto  God.  Know 
ye  not,  that  to  whom  ye  yield  yourselves  servants 
to  obey,  his  servants  ye  are  to  whom  ye  oba}', 
whether  of  sin  unto  death,  or  of  obedience  unto 


Barclay's  catechism.  45 

righteousness?  But  God  be  thanked  that  ye  were 
the  servants  of  sin,  but  ye  have  obeyed  from  the 
heart,  that  form  of  doctrine  which  was  delivered 
you.  Being  then  made  free  from  sin,  ye  became 
-the  servants  of  righteousness.  I  speak  after  the 
manner  of  men,  because  of  the  infirmity  of  your 
flesh:  for  as  ye  have  yielded  your  members  ser- 
vants to  uncleanness,  and  to  iniquity,  unto  ini- 
quity; even  so  now  yield  your  members  servants 
to  righteousness,  unto  holiness.  For  when  ye 
were  the  servants  of  sin,  ye  were  free  from  right- 
eousness. What  fruit  had  ye  then  in  those  things 
whereof  ye  are  now  ashamed?  for  the  end  of 
those  things  is  death.  But  nov/,  being  made  free 
from  sin,  and  become  servants  to  God,  ye  hav€ 
your  fruit  unto  holiness,  and  the  end  everlasting 
life.  For  the  wages  of  sin  is  death;  but  the  gift 
of  God  is  eternal  life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord. 

Q.  It  would  appear  then,  that  God  requires  of 
\is  to  be  perfect? 

A.  Be  ye  therefore  perfect,  even  as  your  Fa- jyiat.  5.48, 
ther  which  is  in  heaven  is  perfect. 

Q.  Is  it  then  possible  to  keep  the  command- 
ments? 

A.  My  yoke  is  easy  and  my  burthen  is  light.  Mat.ll.  30. 

For  this  is  the  love  of  God,  that  we  keep  his  com-  ^  ^  ,     ^  „ 

^  1  John  5. 3, 

mandments,  and  his  commandments  are  not  griev- 
ous. 


46  Barclay's  catechism. 

Q.  Is  it  necessacy  then  for  salvation,  to  keep 
the  commandments? 
RcT.  22.14.      A.  Blessed  are  they  that  do  his  commandments, 
that  they  may  have  right  to  the  tree  of  life,  and 
may  enter  in  through  the  gates  into  the  city. 

Q.  Do  you  understand  by  this  perfection,  that 
any  have  kept  the  commandments,  as  never  to 
have  sinned? 
IJohn  1.        A.  If  we  say  that    we  have  not  sinned,    we; 
make  him  a  liar,  and  his  word  is  not  in  us. 

Q.  Do  you  understand,  that  those  who  are  per- 
fect may  say,  they  have  no  sin,  or  only  that  hav- 
ing sinned,  and  so  having  sin,  in  respect  they 
once  sinned,  as  the  apostle  in  the  passage  cited 
mentions;  may  they  notwithstanding  thereof, 
cume  to  know  forgiveness  for  the  guilt,  but  also 
cleansing  from  the  filth? 

1  John  1.         A.  If  we  say  that  we  have  no  sin,  we  deceive 
8    9 

ourselves,  and  the  truth  is  not  in  us:  if  we  confess 

our  sins,  he  is  faithful  and  just  to  forgive  us  our 

sins,  and  to  cleanse  us  from  all  unrighteousness. 

Q.  That  scripture  seems  to  be  very  plain,  being 

compared  with  the  other  before  mentioned:  but 

because  some  are  apt  to  mistake  and  wrest  the 

v/ords  of  the  apostle,   what  saith  he  elsewhere? 

Did  he  judge  any  could  know  God,  or  be  true 

Christians,  who  kept  not  the  commandments? 

1  John  3.         ^'  ^^J  little  children,  these  things  write  I  unto 

1. 3, 4, 5, 6.  youj  tjiat  ye  sin  not;  and  if  any  man  sin,  we  have 

an  advocate  with  the  Father,   Jesus  Christ  the 


BARCLAY  S    CATECHISM.  47 

righteous.  And  hereby  do  we  know  that  we  know 
him,  if  we  keep  his  commandments.  He  that 
saith,  I  know  him,  and  keepeth  not  his  command- 
ments, is  a  liar,  and  the  trutli  is  not  in  him.  But 
whoso  keepeth  his  word,  in  him  verily  is  the  love 
of  God  perfected:  hereby  know  we  that  we  are  in 
him.  He  that  saith  he  abideth  in  him,  ought 
himself  also  to  walk  even  as  he  walked. 

Beloved,  now  are  we  the  sons  of  God,  and  it  1  John  3. 
doth  not  yet  appear  what  we  shall  be,  but  we"^°  * 
know,  that  when  he  shall  appear,  we  shall  be  like 
him,  for  we  shall  see  him  as  he  is:  and  every 
man  that  hath  this  hope  in  him,  purifieth  himself, 
even  as  he  is  pure.  Whosoever  committeth  sin, 
transgresseth  also  the  law,  for  sin  is  the  trans- 
gression of  the  law.  And  ye  know  that  he  was 
manifested  to  take  away  our  sins;  and  in  him  is 
no  sin.  Whosoever  abideth  in  him  sinneth  not. 
Whosoever  sinneth,  hath  not  seen  him,  neither 
known  him.  Little  children,  let  no  man  deceive 
you:  he  that  doeth  righteousness  is  righteous, 
even  as  he  is  righteous.  He  that  committeth  sin 
is  of  the  devil;  for  the  devil  sinneth  from  the  be- 
ginning. For  this  purpose  the  Son  of  God  was 
manifested,  that  he  might  destroy  the  v/orks  of 
the  devil.  Whosoever  is  born  of  God,  doth  not 
commit  sin;  for  his  seed  remaineth  in  him,  and 
he  cannot  sin,  because  he  is  born  of  God.  In  this 
the  children  of  God  are  manifest,  and  the  children  - 
of  the  devil.  W^hosoever  doeth  not  righteousnessj 


48 

is  not  of  God,    neither  he  that  ioveth  not  his  | 
brother. 

Q.  It  is  very  plain  by  these  passages,  that  the  ' 
apostles  were  far  of  another  mind,    than  those 
that  plead   for  sin  during  term  of  life,  and  much 
against  the  deceit  of  those  who  will  esteem  them- 
^  selves  good  christians  while  they  live  in  their  | 

sins. 
Mat. 7.  A.  Not  everyone  that  saith  unto  me,  Lord, 

"  » "^^  Lord,  shall  enter  into  the  kingdom  of  heaven,  but 
he  that  doeth  tlie  will  of  my  Father  which  is  in 
heaven.  Therefore,  whosoever  heareth  these  say- 
ings of  mine,  and  doeth  them,  I  will  liken  him  to 
a  wise  man,  which  built  his  house  upon  a  rock. 
JohnlS.ir.  ^^  y^  know  these  things,  happy  are  ye  if  ye  do 
them. 

Q.  What  saith  the  apostle  Paul  further  con- 
cerning the  needfulness  of  this  thing? 
1  Cor.  7.         ^'  Circumcision  is  nothing,   and  uncircumci- 
^^-  sion  is  nothing;  but  the  keeping  of  the  command- 

ments of  God. 

Q.  Was  not  this  according  to  the  apostle  Paul's 
judgment,  the  very  intention  of  Christ,  to  have 
his  church  and  children  to  be  pure  and  without 
spot? 
Eph.  1.  4.        A.  According  as  he  hath  chosen  us  in  him  be- 
fore the  foundation  of  the  world,  that  we  should 
be  holy,  and  without  blame  before  him  in  love. 
Eph.  5.  25,      Even  as  Christ  also  loved  the  church,  and  gave 
26, 27.        himself  for  it,  that  he  might  sanctify  and  cleanse 


Barclay's  batechism.  49 

it,  that  he  might  present  it  to  himself  a  glorious 
church,  not  having  spot  or  wrinkle,  or  any  such 
thing,  but  that  it  should  be  holy,  and  without 
blemish. 

Q.  Doth  not  Paul  press  the  same  thing  further, 
besides  the  other  passages  above  mentioned? 

A.  Having  therefore  these  promises,  dearly  be-  2  Cor.  T. 
loved,  let  us  cleanse  ourselves  from  all  filthiness 
of  the  flesh  and  spirit,  perfecting  holiness  in  the 
fear  of  God.   Finally,  brethren,  farewell;  be  per-  2  Cor.  13. 
feet.      Christ  in  you  the  hope  of  glory,  whom  we  ^^^  i  og 
preach,  warning  every  man,  and  teaching  every 
man  in  all  wisdom,  that  we  may  present  every 
man  perfect  in  Christ  Jesus.     Laboring  fervently  Col.  4.12. 
for  you  in  prayers,  that  ye  may  stand  perfect  and 
complete  in  all  the  will  of  God.     To  the  end  he  lThes.3. 
may  establish  your  hearts  unblamable  in  holiness   '^' 
before  God.    And  the  very  God  of  peace  sanctify  ch.  5. 23. 
you  wholly;  and  I  pray  God,  your  whole  spirit 
and  soul,  and  body,  be  presented  blameless  unto 
the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

Q.  Is  not  this  then  the  very  end  for  which  God 
appointed  teachers  in  his  church? 

A.  And  he  gave    some    apostles,    and    some  Eph.  4.  ii. 
prophets,  and  some  evangelists,  and  some  pastors  ^^*  ^^' 
and  teachers,  for  the  perfecting  of  the  saints,  for 
the  work  of  the  ministry,  for  the  edifying  of  the 
body  of  Christ,  till  we  all  come  in  the  unity  of 
the  faith,  and  of  the  knowledge  of  the  Son  of 

E 


50  Barclay's  catechism. 

God,  unto  a  perfect  man,  unto  the  measure  of  the 
stature  of  the  fulness  of  Christ. 

Q.  Seeing  this  is  so  much  pressed  by  the  holy 
men,  doth  not  the  scripture,  which  cannot  lie, 
give  none  of  the  saints  this  testimony,  as  being 
free  from  sin  at  some  times,  and  so  not  always 
and  daily  sinning,  as  is  supposed? 

Gen.  6.  9.  •^'  Noah  was  a  just  man,  and  perfect  in  his 
generations;  and  Noah  walked   with  God.     And 

Job  1.  8,  the  Lord  said  unto  Satan,  hast  thou  considered 
my  servant  Job,  that  there  is  none  like  him  in  the 
earth,  a  perfect  and  an  upright  man,  one  that  fear- 
eth  God,  and  escheweth  evil.     There  was  in  the 

Uikel.       days  of  Herod,  king  of  Judea,  a  certain  priest, 

^'   '  named  Zacharias,  of  the  course  of  Abia;  and  his 

wife  was  of  the  daughters  of  Aaron,  and  her 
name  was  Elizabeth;  and  they  were  both  right- 
eous before  God,  walking  in  all  the  command- 
ments and  ordinances  of  the  Lord  blameless. 

Q.  That  proves  sufficiently  as  to  particular  per- 
sons; but  what  doth  the  scripture  intimate  of 
this,  even  of  considerable  numbers? 

Eoh.  2.  -^'  ^"^  God,  who  is  rich  in   mercy,    for    his 

4,  5,6.  great  love  wherewith  he  hath  loved  us,  even  when 
we  were  dead  in  sin,  hath  quickened  us  together 
with  Christ,  and  hath  raised  us  up  together,  and 
made  us  sit  together  in  heavenly  places  in  Christ 

lleb.  12.      3esus.     But  ye  are  come  unto  Mount  Sion,  and 
»2^'         unto  the  city  of  the  living  God,  the  heavenly  Je- 
rus^l^m,  and  to  an  innumerable  company  of  an- 


oo 


Barclay's  catechism.  51 

gels,  to  the  general  assembly  and  church  of  the 

first-born,  which  are  written  in  heaven,  and  to  God 

the  judge  of  all,  and  to  the  spirits  of  just  men 

made  perfect.     And   I   looked,  and   lo,  a   Lamb  Rgy.  14. 

stood  on  the  Mount  Sion,  and  with  him  an   hun-  ^-  ^' 

dred  forty  and  four  th^sand,  having  his  Father's 

name  written  m  their  foreheads.     These  are  they 

which  were  not  defiled  with  women;  for  they  ai^ 

virgins:    these  are  they  which  follow  the   Lamb 

whithersoever    he    goeth:    these   were   redeemed 

from  among  men,  being  the  first-fruits  unto  God, 

and  to  the  Lamb.    And  in  their  mouth  was  found  Rev.  14,  5. 

no  guile,   for  they  are  without  fault  before  the 

throne  of  God. 


CHAP.  vm. 

Concerning  Perseverance^  and  Falling  from 
Grace, 

Q.  Is  it  enough  for  a  believer,  to  be  sure  that 
he  hath  once  received  true  grace?  or  is  there  any 
further  certainty  requisite? 

A.  Wherefore  the  rather,  brethren,  give  dili-  2  Peter  1. 
gence  to  make  your  calling  and  election  sure^  for  1^- 
if  ye  do  these  things  ye  shall  never  fall. 

Q.  May  one  that  hath  received  true  grace,  have 
ground  to  fear,  or  suppose  he  can  fall? 

A.  But  I  keep  under  my  body,  and  bring  it  into  1  Cor.  9, 
subjection,  lest  that  by  any  means,  when  I  have 


52  BARCLAY'S    CATECHlSaf. 

preached  to  others,  I  myself  should  become  a 
castaway. 

Q.  That  greatly  cotitradicteth  the  doctrine  of 
such  as  say,  once  in  grace,  ever  in  grace:  But 
doth  the  apostle  Paul  express  this  onjy  out  of  an 
humble  esteem  of  himself?  or  doth  he  judge  or  i 
suppose  the  like  of  other  saints?  1 

Heb.3.  12,      A.  Take  heed,  brethren,  lest  there  be  in  any  of 
^'^'  you  an  evil  heart  of  unbelief,  in  departing  from 

the  living  God.    But  exhort  one  another  daily, 
while  it  is  called  to-day;  lest  any  of  you  be  hard- 
Heb  4  11  ^^^^  through  the  deceitfulness  of  sin.    Let  us  la- 
bor therefore  to  enter  into  that  rest,  lest  any  man 
„  ,    g        fall  after  the  same  example  of  unbelief.    For  it  is 
4,  5,  6.        impossible  for  those  who  were  once  enlightened, 
and  have  tasted  of  the  heavenly  gift,  and  were 
made  partakers  of  the  Holy  Ghost,    and  have 
fasted  the  good  word  of  God,  and  the  powers  of 
the  world  to  come,  if  they  shall  fall  away,  to  re- 
new them  again  unto  repentance;  seeing  they  cru- 
cify to  themselves  the  Son  of  God  afresh,  and  put 
„  ,    -2       ^^^^  to  an  open  shame.     Looking  diligently,  lest 
15.  any  man  fail  of  the  grace  of  God;  lest  any  root 

of  bitterness  springing  up,  trouble  you,  and  there- 
by many  be  defiled. 

Q   Doth  he  speak  this  only  by  supposition,  or 
doth  he  assert  it  not  only  possible,  but  certain? 
Tim.  4.         A.  For  the  time  will  come,  when  they  will  not 
endure  sound  doctrine;  but  after  their  own  lusts 
shall  they  heap  to  themselves  teachers,  having 


9 

4, 


BARCLAY  S    CATECHISM.  Jo 

itching  ears.    And  they  shall  turn  their  ears  from 
the  truth,  and  shall  be  turned  unto  fables. 

Q.  Doth  the  apostle  even  judge  it  necessary  to 
guard  such  an  one,  as  his  beloved  son  Timothy, 
against  this  hazard? 

A.  This  charge  I  commit  unto  thee,  son  Timo-  i  Tim.  1. 

thy,  according  to  the  prophecies  which  went  be-     * 

fore  on  thee,  that  thou   by  them  mightest  war  a 

good  warfare,  holding  faith  in  a  good  conscience; 

which  some    having  put  away,   concerning  faith 

have  made  shipwreck.     For  the  love  of  money  is  i  Tim.  6, 

the  root  of  all  evil;  which  while  some  coveted  af-     ' 

ter,   they  have  erred  from  the  faith,  and  pierced 

themselves  through   with    many   sorrows.      And 

2  Tim.  *^. 
their  word  will  eat  as  doth  a  canker;  of  whom   is  17, 18.  " 

Hymeneus    and    Philetus,    who    concerning  (lie 

truth  have  erred,  saying,   that  the  resurrection  is 

past  already;  and  overthrow  the  faith  of  some. 

Q.  Doth  the  apostle  any  where  express  his 
fears  of  this,  as  a  thing  that  may  happen  to  any 
number  of  people,  who  once  truly  received  the 
faith  of  Christ.^ 

A.  Well;  because  of  unbelief  they  were  bro-  Romans  11. 
ken  off,  and  thou  standest  by  faith.     Be  not  high-  ^0. 
minded,  but  fear.     Now  the   Spirit  speaketh  ex-  i  ^[^  4 
pressly,  that  in  the  latter  times  some  shall  depart  ^• 
from  the  faith,  &c.     For  this  cause,  when  I  could  i  Thes.  5. 
no  longer  forbear,    I  sent  to  know  your  faith,  lest  ^• 
by  some  means  the  tempter  have  tempted  you, 
and  our  labor  be  in  vain. 

E2 


54  Barclay's  catechism,  i 

Q.  What  is  the  apostle  Peter's  mind;  does  he 
judge,  that  such  as  have  knov.n  the  right  way, 
niaj  forsake  it? 
2  Peter  2.  A.  Cursed  children,  \vhich  have  forsaken  the 
ir'  18-  20*  '*'§^^*  ^^y'  ^^^  ^^^  ^on^  astray,  following  the  way 
2ij  22.  of  Balaam  the  son  of  Bosor,  who  loved  the  wages 
of  unrighteousness;  but  was  rebuked  for  his  ini- 
quity; the  dumb  ass  speaking  with  man's  voice, 
forbad  the  madness  of  the  prophet.  These  are 
wells  without  water;  clouds  that  are  carried  witli 
a  tempest:  to  whom  the  mist  of  darkness  is  re- 
served for  ever.  For  when  they  speak  great 
swelling  words  of  vanity,  they  allure  through  the 
lusts  of  the  flesh,  through  much  wantonness,  those 
that  were  clean  escaped  from  them  who  live  in 
error.  For  if  after  they  have  escaped  the  pol- 
lutions of  the  world,  through  the  knowledge 
of  the  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  they 
are  again  entangled  therein,  and  overcome;  the 
latter  end  is  worse  with  them  than  the  begin- 
ning. For  it  had  been  better  for  them  not  to  have 
known  the  way  of  righteousness,  than,  after  they 
have  known  it,  to  turn  from  the  holy  command- 
ment delivered  unto  them.  But  it  is  happened 
unto  them  according  to  the  true  proverb,  The  dog 
is  turned  to  his  own  vomit  again;  and.  The  sow 
that  was  washed,  to  her  wallowing  in  the  mire. 

Q.  Gives  he  any  cautions  to  them  that  stand, 
as  supposing  they  may  also  fall? 
2Pet.3. 17.      A.  Ye  therefore,  beloved,  seeing  ye  know  these 


Barclay's  catechism.  55 

things  before,  beware  lest  ye  also,  being  led  away 
with  the  error  of  the  wicked,  fall  from  your  own 
steadfastness. 

Q.  May  a  man  be  truly  a  branch  in  Christ,  or 
a  real  member  of  his  body,  and  afterwards  be  cut 
off? 

A.  If  a  man  abide  not  in  me,  he  is  cast  forth  Johnl5. 6. 
as  a  branch,  and  is  withered. 

Q.  May  a  righteous  man  then  depart  from  his 
righteousness? 

A.  But  when  the  righteous  man  turneth  away  Ezek.  18. 
from  his  righteousness,  and   committeth  iniquity,  ^^-  a"d33, 

xo. 

and  dieth  in  them;  for  his  iniquity  that  he  hath 
done,  he  shall  die. 

Q.  May  a  believer  come  to  such  a  condition  in 
this  life,  from  which  he  cannot  fall  away? 

A.  Him  that  overcometh,  will  I  make  a  pillar  Rev.  3. 12. 
I  in  the  temple  of  my  God,  and  he  shall  go  no  more 
out;  and  I  will  wTite  upon  him  the  name  of  my 
God,  and  the  name  of  the  city  of  my  God,  which 
is  New  Jerusalem,  which  cometh  down  out  of 
heaven  from  my  God:  and  I  will  write  upon  him 
my  new  name. 

Q.  May  such  an  one  come  to  be  assured  that  he 
is  in  this  condition? 

A.  For  1  am  persuaded,  that  neither  death,  nor  Romans  8. 
llife,   nor  angels,  nor  principalities,   nor  powers,'^  ''^  ' 
<  nor  things  present,  nor  things  to  come,  nor  height, 
nor  depth,   nor  any  other  creature,  shall  be  able 


56  BARCtAY's    CATECHISJf. 

to  separate  us  from  the  love  of  God,  which  is  ia 
Christ  Jesus  our  Lord. 


CHAP.  IX. 

Concerning  the  Church  and  Ministry, 

Q.  What  is  the  church?  \ 

1  Tim.  3.        A.  But  if  I  tarry  long,  that  thou  mayest  kno\y  ' 
how  thou  oughtest  to  behave  thyself  in  the  house 
of  God,   which  is  the  ehurch  of  the  living  God, 
the  pillar  and  ground  of  truth. 

Q.  Who  is  the  head  of  the  church? 
Col.  1.  13.  A.  Who  hath  delivered  us  from  the  power  of 
18:  and  2.  darkness,  and  hath  translated  us  into  the  king- 
dom of  his  dear  Son:  And  he  is  thD  head  of  the 
body,  the  church,  from  which  all  the  body,  by 
joints  and  bands,  having  nourishment  ministered, 
and  knit  together,  increaseth  with  the  increase  of 
God. 

Q.  What  kind  of  persons  make  the  church? 
1  Cor.  1.2.      A.  Them  that  are  sanctified  in  Christ  Jesus. 
Acts  2.47.       And  the  Lord  added  to  the  church  daily  such 
as  should  be  saved. 

Q.  Hath  not  Christ  appointed  officers  in  the 
church,  for  the  work  of  the  ministry? 
Eph.  4.  8,  A.  Wherefore  he  saith,  When  he  ascended  up 
11, 12.  Qn  high,  he  led  captivity  captive,  and  gave  gifts 
unto  men.  And  he  gave  some  apostles,^  and  some 
prophets,  and  some  evangelists,  and  soRie  pastors 
and  teachers,  for  the  perfecting  of  the  saints,  for 


BARCLAY'S    CATECHISM.  57 

the  work  of  the  ministry,  for  the  edification  of 
the  body  of  Christ. 

Q.  What  kind  of  men  should  such  as  are  teach- 
ers and  overseers  of  the  church  be? 

A.  A  bishop  then  must  be  blameless,  the  hus- 1  Tim.  3. 
band  of  one  wife,  vigilant,  sober,  of  good  beha-  ^  ^°  ^' 
viour,  given  to  hospitality,  apt  to  teach;  not  given 
to  wine,  no  striker,  not  greedy  of  filthy  lucre; 
but  patient,  not  a  brawler,  not  covetous;  one  that 
ruleth  well  his  own  house,  having  his  children  in 
subjection  with  all  gravity;  for  if  a  man  know  not 
how  to  rule  his  own  house,  how  shall  he  take  care 
of  the  church  of  God?  not  a  novice,  lest  being 
lifted  up  with  pride,  he  fall  into  the  condemnation 
of  the  devil*  Moreover,  he  must  have  a  good  re- 
port of  them  which  are  without;  lest  he  fall  into 
reproach,  and  the  snare  of  the  devil. 

For  a  bishop  must  be  blameless,  as  the  steward  Titus  1. 

7  8  9 
of  God:  not  self-willed,  not  soon  angry,  not  given    '  *   ' 

^^to  wine,  no  striker,  not  given  to  filthy  lucre;  but 

a  lover  of  hospitality,  a  lover  of  good  men;  sober, 

Just,   holy,   temperate;   holding  fast  the  faithful 

word,  as  he  hath  been  taught,  that  he  may  be  able 

]by  sound  doctrine,  both  to  exhort  and  to  convince 

the  gainsajers. 

Q.  What  is  incumbent  upon  such  to  do? 

A.  Take  heed  therefore  to  yourselves,  and  to  Act620.  2& 
all  the  flock,   over  which  the  Holy  Ghost   hath 
made  you  overseers,  to  feed  the  church  of  God. 


58  Barclay's  catechism.  I 

The  elders  which  are  among  you  I  exhort,  whoj! 
am  also  an  elder,  and  a  witness  of  the  sufferingsj 
of  Christ,  and  also  a  partaker  of  the  glory  tha 
shall  be  revealed:  Feed  the  flock  of  God  which  is 
among  you,  taking  the  oversight  thereof,  not  by 
constraint,  but  willingly;  not  for  filthy  lucre,  bufc 
of  a  ready  mind;  neither  as  being  lords  over  God^si 
heritage,  but  being  ensamples  to  the  flock. 

Q.  Though  they  be  not  to  lord  over  the  flock,  j] 
yet  is  there  not  a  respect  due  to  them  in  their  i 
place? 

1  Tim.  5.  A.  Let  the  elders  that  rule  well,  be  counted! 
worthy  of  double  honor,  especially  they  who  labor  ' 
in  the  word  and  doctrine. 

Q.  Albeit  then,  among  true  christians,   every 
one  that  believeth,  is  to  have  the  witness  in  him-  ; 
self,  being  persuaded  in  himself  by  the  Spirit;  yet  \ 
is  there  not  also  a  real  subjection  to  be  to  one  I 
another  in  the  Lord?  I 

1  Cor.  14.  A.  The  spirits  of  the  prophets  are  subject  to 
the  prophets. 

Heb.lS.ir.  Obey  them  that  have  the  rule  over  you,  and 
submit  yourselves;  for  they  watch  for  your  souls, 
as  they  that  must  give  account,  that  they  may  do 
it  with  joy,  and  not  with  grief;  for  that  is  unprof- 
itable for  you. 

IThes.  5.       And  we  beseech  you,  brethren,  to  know  them 

12,13.  which  labor  among  you,  and  are  over  you  in  the 
Lord,  and  admonish  you;  and  to  esteem  them 
very  highly  in  love  for  their  works  sake.  / 


BARCLAY'S    CATECHISM.  59 

Likewise,  je  younger,  submit  yourselves  unto  1  Peter  5. 
the  elder;   yea,  all  of  you  be  subject  one  to  ano-   * 
ther,  and  be  clothed  with   humility;  for  God   re- 
sisteth  the  proud,  and  giveth  grace  unto  the  hum- 
ble. 

Q.  flow  ought  true  teachers  to  minister  in  the 
church.^ 

(^A.  As  every  man  hath  received  the  gift,  even  i  Peter  4. 
so  minister  the  same  one  to  another,  as  good  '  ^^' 
stewards  of  the  manifold  grace  of  God.  If  any 
speak,  let  him  speak  as  the  oracles  of  God:  if  any 
man  minister,  let  him  do  it  as  of  the  ability  which 
God  giveth;  that  God  in  all  things  may  be  glori- 
fied through  Jesus  Christ. 

Q.  I  percieve  then,  that  every  true  minister  of 
the  church  of  Christ,  is  to  minister  of  the  gift 
and  grace  of  God,  which  he  hath  received:  but 
some  are.  of  the  judgment,  that  natural  wisdom 
or  parts,  and  human  learning,  are  the  qualifica- 
tions which  are  of  absolute  necessity  for  a  minis- 
ter: but  grace  they  judge  not  to  be  so  absolutely 
necessary,  but  that  one  may  be  a  minister  without 
it:  what  saith  the  scripture  in  this  case? 

A.  A  bishop  must  be  blameless,  sober,  just,  ho-  Titus  2. 
ly,  temperate.  *   * 

Q.  Methinks  it  is  impossible  for  a  man  to  be 
blameless,  just,  holy,  sober  and  temperate,  with- 
out the  grace  of  God:  so  that  if  these  qualilica- 
tions  be  absolutely  necessary,  then  surely,  that 
without  which  a  man  cannot  be  so  qualified,  must 


60  Barclay's  catechism. 

be  necessary  also:  but  what  saith  the  scripture,  as 
to  the  necessity  of  natural  wisdom,   and  human 
learning? 
1  Cor.  1.         A.  Where  is  the  wise?    Where  is  the  scribe? 

OQ   21 

"  *  *  Where  is  the  disputer  of  this  world?  Hath  not 
God  made  foolish  the  wisdom  of  this  world?  For 
after  that,  in  the  wisdom  of  God,  the  world  by 
wisdom  knew  not  God,  it  pleased  God  by  the 
foolishness  of  preaching,  to  save  them  that  be- 
lieve. 

Q.  It  seems  then,  the  preachings  of  the  true 
ministers  are  not  gathered  together  by  wisdom 
and  learning:  it  hath  been  supposed  that  a  man 
must  be  greatly  skilled  in  learning,  to  make  a 
good  sermon:  What  is  the  apostle's  judgment  in 
the  case? 

verse  17.  A.  For  Christ  sent  me  not  to  baptize,  but  to 
preach  the  gospel;  not  with  wisdom  of  words, 
lest  the  cross  of  Christ  should  be  made  of  none 
effect. 

chapter  2.       And  I  was  with  you  in  weakness,  and  in  fear, 

' '  *  *  and  in  much  trembling.  And  my  speech  and  my 
preaching  was  not  with  enticing  words  of  man's 
wisdom,  but  in  demonstration  of  the  Spirit  and 
of  power;  that  your  faith  should  not  stand  in  the 
wisdom  of  men,  but  in  the  power  of  God. 

Q.  I  perceive  the  apostle  lays  far  more  stress 
upon  the  demonstration  and  power  of  the  Spirit 
in  a  preacher,  than  upon  human  literature:  ought 


Barclay's  catechism.    ""  61 

ministers  then  to  preach  as  the  Spirit  teacheth 
them? 

A.  Also  we  speak,    not  in  the  words  which  i  Cor.  2. 
man's  wisdom   teacheth,    but    which  the    Holj  ^^' 
Ghost  teacheth. 

And  they  were  all  filled  with  the  Holy  Ghost,  Acts  2  4. 
and  began  to  speak  as  the  Spirit  gave  them  utter- 
ance. 

Q.  Is  it  Christ  then  that  speaketh  in  and 
through  his  ministers.^ 

A.  For  it  is  not  je  that  speak,  but  the  Spirit  of  Mat.lO.  20. 
your  Father,  which  speaketh  in  you. 

For  it  is  not  ye  that  speak,  but  the  Holy  Ghost.  Mar.13. 11. 

For  the  Holy  Ghost  shall  teach  you  in  the  same  Lukel2.12. 
hour,  what  ye  ought  to  say. 

Since  ye  seek  a  proof  of  Christ  speaking  in2Cor.l3.3. 
[me,  which  to  you -ward  is  not  weak,  but  is  mighty 
in  you. 

Q.  What  is  the  apostle's  mind  of  that  human 
learning,  which  some  cry  up  so  much,  and  think 
so  needful  in  a  minister,^ 

A.  Beware  lest   any  man  spoil  you    through  col.  3.  8. 
philosophy  and  vain  deceit^    after  the  tradition  of 
men,  after  the  rudiments  of  the  world,  and  not 
after  Christ. 

0  Timothy!  keep  that  which  is  committed  toj-p-j^,  g 
fihy  trust,  avoiding  profane  and  vain  babblings,  20. 
and  oppositions  of  science  falsely  so  called. 

Q.  Though  true  ministers  speak  not  by  the  nat- 


i  62  Barclay's  catechism. 

ural  wisdom  of  man;  yet,  is  their  testimony  alto- 
gether void  of  wisdom? 

iCor.2.  A.  Howbeit,   we  speak  wisdom  among    them 

*   *  that  are   perfect;   yet   not   the   wisdom   of  this 

world,  nor  of  the  princes  of  this  world,  that  come 

to  nought:  but  we  speak  the  wisdom  of  God  in  a 

j  mystery,  even  the  hidden  wisdom,  which  God  or- 

\  dained  before  the  world  unto  our  glory. 

j  Q.  What  is  the  reason,  that  njan  by  his  natural 

wisdom  is  not  capable  to  minister  in  the  things  of 

God? 

ver.  11. 14.  A.  For  what  man  knoweth  the  things  of  a  man, 
save  the  spirit  of  a  man,  which  is  in  him?  even 
so  the  things  of  God  knoweth  no  man,  but  the 
Spirit  of  God.  But  the  natural  man  receiveth  not 
the  things  of  the  Spirit  of  God,  for  they  are  fool- 
ishness unto  him;  neither  can  he  know  them,  be- 
cause they  are  spiritually  discerned, 

Q.  These  scriptures  do  sufficiently  hold  forth, 
that  the  true  call  to  the  ministry  is  from  God; 
that  which  maketh  a  true  minister,  is  the  gift  and 
grace  of  God;  that  the  true  and  effectual  preach- 
ing of  a  faithful  minister  is  such,  as  is  from  the 
inward  teaching  and  leading  of  the  Spirit  of  God: 
But  what  say  the  scriptures  touching  the  main- 
tenance of  ministers? 

Gal.  6.  6.  A.  Let  him  that  is  taught  in  the  word,  commu- 
nicate unto  him  that  teacheth  in  all  good  things. 

1  Cor.  9.         If  we  have  sown  unto  you  spiritual  things,  is  it 

■*    ^°     •     a  great  matter  if  we  shall  reap  your  carnal  things? 


Barclay's  catechism.  G3 

If  others  be  partakers  of  this  power  over  you, 
are  not  we  rather?  Nevertheless  we  have  not 
used  this  power,  but  suffer  all  things,  lest  we 
should  hinder  the  gospel  of  Christ.  Do  ye  not 
know,  that  they  which  minister  about  holy  things, 
live  of  the  things  of  the  temple?  and  they  which 
wait  at  the  altar,  are  oartakers  with  the  altar? 
even  so  hath  the  Lord  ordained,  that  they  which 
preach  the  gospel,  should  live  of  the  gospel. 

For  the  scripture  saith,   thou  shalt  not  muzzle  i  Tim.  5. 
the  ox  that  treadeth  out  the  corn:  and,  the  laborer  ^^' 
is  worthy  of  his  reward. 

Q.  I  perceive  by  these  scriptures,  that  there 

lieth  an  obligation  upon  the  saints,  to  help  with 

outward  things,  such  as  truly  minister  unto  them 

spiritual;  but  this  seems  to  be  voluntary:    Ought 

j  not  therefore  true  ministers  to  preach,   whether 

I  they  be  sure  of  this  or  not?  What  saith  the  apos- 

'   tie  of  himself  in  this  case;  and  what  adviseth  he 

others? 
m     A.  But  I  have  used  none  of  these  things,  nei- 1  Cor.  9. 
ther  have  I  written  these  things,  that  it  should  be  "^   ^°  ^  ' 
so  done  unto  me:  for  it  were  better  for  me  to  die, 
thanthat  any  man  should  make  my  glorying  void. 
For  though  I  preach  the  gospel,  I  have  nothing  to 
glory  of:  for  necessity  is  laid  upon  me;  yea,  woe 
is  unto  me  if  I  preach  not  the  gospel!  For  if  I  do 
this  thing  willingly,   I  have  a  reward;    but    if 
against  my  will,  a  dispensation  of  the  gospel  is 
committed  unto  me.     What  is  my  reward  then? 


64  Barclay's  catechism. 

Verilj,   that  when  I  preach   the  gospel,   1  maj 

make  the  gospel  of  Christ  without  charge,  that  I 

abuse  not  my  power  in  the  gospel? 

Acts  20.  I  have  coveted  no  man's  silver,  or  gold,  or  ap- 

33  34  35  "  '         o  1 

'     '     '  parel.  Yea,  ye  yourselves  know,  that  these  hands 

have  ministered  unto  my  necessities,  and  to  them 
that  were  with  me.  I  have  shewed  you  all  things, 
how  that  so  laboring,  ye  ought  to  support  the 
weakj  and  to  remember  the  words  of  the  Lord 
Jesus,  how  he  said,  It  is  more  blessed  to  give  than 
to  receive. 

Q.  It  is  observable  that  the  apostle  every  where 
makes  special  mention  among  the  qualifications 
of  teachers,  that  they  be  not  given  to  filthy  lucre: 
AVhat  oug;ht  we  then  to  think  of  those  teachers 
who  will  not  preach  without  hire?  Yea,  that  will 
by  violence  take  from  those  who  receive  no  spir- 
ituals from  them?  Are  they  like  to  be  the  minis- 
ters of  Christ?  Or  what  else  saith  the  scripture 
of  such? 

Isa.56. 11.       A.  Yea,  they  are  greedy  dogs,  which  can  never 
have  enough;  and  they  are  shepherds  that  cannot 
understand:  they  all  look  to  their  own  way,  every  j 
one  for  his  gain  from  his  quarter. 

Ezeldelo4.  Son  of  man,  prophesy  against  the  sliepherds  of 
'  '  '  Israel:  prophesy,  and  say  unto  them,  Thus  s-aith 
the  liord  God  unto  the  shepherds,  AVoe  be  to  the 
shepherds  of  Israel  that  do  feed  themselves! 
Should  not  the  shepherds  feed  the  flocks?  Ye  eat 
the  fat,  and  ye  clothe  you  with  the  wool,  ye  kill 


BARCLAY'S    CATECHISM.  05 

them  that  are  fed;  but  ye  feed  not  the  flock.  As 
I  live,  saith  the  Lord  God,  surelj  because  my 
flock  became  a  prey,  and  my  flock  became  meat 
to  every  beast  of  the  field,  because  there  was  no 
shepherd,  neither  did  my  shepherds  search  for  my 
flock;  but  the  shepherds  fed  themselves,  and  fed 
not  my  flock. 

Thus  saith  the  Lord  concerning  the  prophets  Mlcah  3. 
that  make  my  people  ERR,  that  bite  with  their  '  ' 
teeth,  and  cry  PEACE;  and  he  that  putteth 
not  into  their  mouths,  they  even  prepare  war 
against  him.  The  heads  thereof  judge  for  reward, 
and  the  priests  thereof  teach  for  hire,  and  the 
prophets  thereof  divine  for  money:  yet  will  they 
lean  upon  the  Lord,  and  say,  is  not  the  Lord 
among  us?  none  evil  can  come  upon  us. 

Q.  These  are  plain  testimonies  from  the  proph- 
ets; are  there  none  such  from  the  apostles? 

A.  Perverse  disputings  of  men  of  corrupt  i  Tim.  5. 
minds,  and  destitute  of  the  truth,  supposing  that  ^  ^^  ^^' 
gain  is  godliness:  from  such  withdraw  thyself. — 
But  godliness  with  contentment  is  great  gain.— 
For  we  brought  nothing  into  this  world,  and  it  is 
certain  we  can  carry  nothing  out.  And  having 
food  and  raiment,  let  us  be  therewith  content. — 
But  they  that  will  be  rich,  fall  into  temptation, 
and  a  snare,  and  into  many  foolish  and  hurtful 
lusts,  which  drown  men  in  destruction  and  per- 
dition. For  the  love  of  money  is  the  root  of  all 
evil;  which,  while  some  coveted  after,  they  havo 
F2 


66  Barclay's  catechism. 

erred  from  the  faith,  and  pierced  themselves 
through  with  many  sorrows. 

For  men  shall  be  lovers  of  their  own  selves,  i 
covetous,  boasters,  proud,  blasphemers,    disobe- 
dient to  parents,  unthankful,  unholy. 

Titus  1.  For  tliere  are  many  unruly  and  vain  talkers 

'     '         and  deceivers,  specially  they  of  the  circumcision; 

■Nvhose   mouths   must   be   stopped;    who    subvert 

whole  houses,  teaching  things  which  they  ought 

not,  for  filthy  lucre's  sake. 

2  Peter  2.        But  there  were  false  prophets  also  among  the 

15.''''  ^'  people,   even  as  there  shall    be    false    teachers 
^  among  you,  who  privily  shall  bring  in  damnable 

heresies,  even  denying  the  Lord  that  bought 
them,  and  bring  upon  themselves  swift  destruc- 
tion. And  many  shall  follow  their  pernicious 
ways;  by  reason  of  whom  the  way  of  truth  shall 
be  evil  spoken  of.  And  through  covetousness 
shall  they  v/ith  feigned  words  make  merchandise 
of  you:  whose  judgment  now  of  a  long  time  lin- 
gereth  not,  and  their  damnation  slumbereth  not: 
Having  eyes  full  of  adultery,  and  that  cannot 
cease  from  sin;  beguiling  unstable  souls:  an  heart 
they  have  exercised  with  covetous  practices;  cur- 
sed children;  which  have  forsaken  the  right  way, 
and  are  gone  astray,  following  the  way  of  Ba- 
laam the  son  of  Bosor,  who  loved  the  wages  of 
unrighteousness. 

.   ,  ^^  ^^       Woe  unto  them!  for  they  have  gone  in  the  way 
of  Cain,  and  ran  greedily  after  the  error  of  Ba- 


Barclay's  catechism.  6f 

Jaam  for  reward,  and  perished  in  the  gainsaying 
of  Core.  These  are  murmurers,  complainers, 
walking  after  their  own  lusts;  and  their  mouth 
speaketh  great  swelling  words,  having  mens'  per- 
sons in  admiration  because  of  advantage. 

Q.  Ought  there  to  be  any  order  in  the  church 
of  God? 

A.  Let  all  things  be  done  decently,   and  in  i  Cor.  14 

,  40. 

order. 

Q.  What  good  order  is  prescribed  in  the  church 
concerning  preachers.'^  Is  it  fit  that  only  one  or 
two  speak;  or  may  more,  if  moved  thereunto? 

A.  If  any  thing  be  revealed  to  another  that  verse  30 
sitteth  by,  let  the  first  hold  his  peace:  for  ye  may 
all  prophesy  one  by  one,  that  all  may  learn  and 
all  may  be  comforted.  And  the  spirits  of  the 
prophets  are  subject  to  the  prophets.  For  God  is 
not  the  author  of  confusion,  but  of  peace,  as  in 
all  churches  of  the  saints. 

Q.  Is  there  any  promise,  that  daughters  as  well 
as  sons,  shall  prophesy  under  the  gospel? 

A.  And  it  shall  come  to  pass  afterward,  that  I  Joel  2.  2a 
will  pour  out  my  Spirit  upon  all  flesh;  and  your 
sons  and  your  daughters  shall  prophesy,  your  old 
men  shall  dream  dreams,  your  young  men  shall 
see  visions. 

Q.  Is  this  promise  fulfilled,  and  to  be  fulfilled? 

A.  But  this  is  that  which  was  spoken  by  the  Acts  2. 
prophet  Joel;  And  it  shall  come  to  pass  in  the  last  ^^»  ^^'- 
days,  saith  God,  I  will  pour  out  of  my  Spirit  upon 


6Si  Barclay's  catechism. 

all  flesh:  and  your  sons  and  your  daughters  shall 
prophesy,  and  your  young  men  shall  see  visions, 
and  your  old  men  shall  dream  dreams. 

Q.  Is  there  any  such  instance  of  old  in  the 
scriptures? 
Acts  21.  9.      A.  And  the  same  man  had  four  daughters,  vir- 
gins, which  did  prophesy. 

Q.  But  may  all  women  speak,  or  are  any  com- 
manded to  keep  silence  in  the  church? 
1  Cor.  14        A.  Let  your  women  keep  silence  in  the  church» 
"^  *     '         es;  for  it  is  not  permitted  unto  them  to  speak,  but 
they  are  commanded  to  be   under  obedience,   as 
also  saith  the  law.     And  if  they  will  learn   any 
thing,  let  them  ask  their  husbands  at  home;  for  it 
is  a  shame  for  women  to  speak  in  the  church. 
1  Tim.  2.        Let  the  woman  learn  in  silence  with  all  subjec- 
^^'  ^^*        tion.     But  I  suffer  not  a  woman  to  teach,  nor  to 
usurp  authority  over  the  man,  but  to  be  in  silence. 
Q.  The  first  of  these  seems  only  to  relate  to 
women  that  have  husbands:  what  comes  of  them 
that  have  none?     The  second  speaks  nothing  of 
the  church,   but  only  that  she  ought  not  to  usurp 
authority  over  the  man:  hath  this  no  limitation? 
Doth  not  the  same  apostle  give  directions,  how 
women  that  speak,  should  behave  themselves  in 
the  church? 
1  Cor.  11.        A.  Every  man  praying  or  prophesying,  having 
'  •  his  head  covered,  dishonoreth  his  head.  But  every 

woman  that  prayeth  or  prophesieth  with  her  head 


t 


Barclay's  catechism.  69 

•uncovered,  dishonoreth  her  head:  for  that  is  even 
all  one  as  if  she  were  shaven. 


CHAP.  X. 

Concerning  Worship, 

\Q.  What  is  the  worship  that  is  acceptable   to 
God.? 

A.  But  the  hour  Cometh,  and  now  is,  when  the  John  4. 
true  worshippers  shall  worship  the  Father  in  spirit  ^^'     ' 
and  in  truth;  for  the  Father  seeketh  such  to  wor- 
ship him.     God  is  a  Spirit;  and  thej  that  worship 
him,  must  worship  him  in  spirit  and  in  truth. 
:-  Q.  Seeing  prayer  is  a  part  of  worship,  whea 
ought  we  to  pray? 

A.  And  he  spake  a  parable  unto  them  to  this  Luke  18. 1, 
fend,  that  men  ought  always  to  pray,  and  not  to 
jfaint. 

I    Pray  without  ceasins;.  1  Thes.  5, 

17 
I    Q.  Hath   God  no ,  respect   to  the    manner   of 

icalling  upon  him.? 

A.  For  there  is  no  difference  between  the  Jew  Rom.  10. 
and  the  Greek;  for  the  same  Lord  over  all  is  rich  ^^' 
iinto  all  that  call  upon  him. 

Q.  Doth  God  hear  the  prayers  of  all  that  call 

Vpon  him.? 

/  A.  The  Lord  is  nigh  unto  all  them  that  call  Psabnl45. 

upon  him,  to  all  that  call  upon  him  in  truth. 

The  Lord  is  far  from  the  wicked:  but  he  heareth 
.,  r  .1        •   .  *  Prov.15,29, 

the  prayer  ol  the  righteous* 


TO  Barclay's  catechism.  ! 

John  9.  31.  Now,  we  know  that  God  heareth  not  sinners: 
but  if  any  man  be  a  worshipper  of  God,  and  doeth 
his  will,  him  he  heareth. 

1  John  5.  And  this  is  the  confidence  that  we  have  in  him, 
that  if  we  ask  any  thing  according  to  his  will,  he! 
heareth  us. 

Q.  After  what  manner  doth  the  apostle  declar^' 
he  will  pray? 

1  Cor,  14.        A.  What  is  it  then?    I  wilT  pray  with  the  Spir- j 
it,  and  I  will  pray  with  the  understanding  also:  1\ 
will  sing  with  the  Spirit,  and  I  will  sing  with  the 
understanding  also. 

Q.  Must  we  then  pray  always  in  the  Spirit? 

Eph.  6. 18.   '  A.  Praying  always  with  all   prayer  and  suppli- 
cation in  the  Spirit,  and  watching  thereunto  withi 
all  perseverance  and  supplication  for  all  saints. 

Q.  Since  we  are  commanded  to  pray  always  in 
it,  can  we  do  it  of  our  own  selves,  without  the 
help  thereof? 

Romans  8.       A.  Likewise  the  Spirit  also  helpeth  ourinfirmi- 

26.  27.  tjgg;  fop  ^yg  know  not  what  we  should  pray  for  as 
we  ought;  but  the  Spirit  itself  maketh  interces- 
sion for  us  with  groanings  which  cannot  be  utter- 
ed. And  he  that  searcheth  the  hearts,  knoweth 
what  is  the  mind  of  the  Spirit,  because  he  maketh 
intercession  for  the  saints  according  to  the  will 
of  God. 

Q.  I  perceive,  that  without  the  leadings  and 
help  of  the  Spirit,  prayers  are  altogether  unpi-of- 
itable.    May  not  a  nian  truly  utter  those  things 

/ 


Barclay's  catechism.  71 

|hat  are  spiritual,  without  the  Spirit's  assistance? 

A.  Wherefore  I  give  you  to  understand,  that  i  Cor.  12, 
no  man  speaking  by  the  Spirit  of  God,  calleth  Je-  ^' 
sus  accursed;  and  that  no  man  can  say  that  Jesus 
is  the  Lord,  but  by  the  Holy  Ghost. 

Q.  This  is  strange:  it  seems  the  Spirit  is  much 
more  necessary  than  many  called  Christians  sup- 
pose it  to  be;  some  of  which  can  scarce  give  a 
good  account,  whether  they  have  it,  or  want  it: 
but  if  a  man  speak  things  true  upon  the  matter, 
are  they  not  true  as  from  him,  if  spoken  without 
the  Spirit? 

A.  And  thougii  they  say,  the  Lord  liveth;  sure-  Jer.  5.  2. 
ly  they  swear  falsely. 

Q.  It  is  apparent  from  all  these  scriptures,  that 

the  true  worship  of  God  is  in  the  Spirit;  and  as 

it  is  not  limited  to  a  certain  place,  neither  to  any 

certain  time,  what  shall   we  think  of  them  that 

ilead  for  the  observation  of  certain  days? 

A.  But  now,  after  that  ye  have  known  God,  or  Gal.  4. 

9   10  11. 
rather  are  known  of  God,  how  turn  ye  again  to    '     ' 

the  weak  and  beggarly  elements,   whereunto  ye 

desire  again  to  be  in  bondage?     Ye  observe  days, 

and  months,  and  times,  and  years.     1  am  afraid 

of  you,  lest  I  have  bestowed  upon  you  labor  in 

vain. 

/  Let  no  man,  therefore,  judge  you  in  meat,  or  in  Col.  2. 

drink,  or  in  respect  of  an  holy  day,  or  of  the  new     '  ■"* 

moon,  or  of  the  sabbath-days,  which  are  a  shado\y 

of  things  to  come:  but  the  body  is  of  Christ. 


72  Barclay's  catechism* 

Q.  Seeing  it  is  so,  mav  not  some  Christians  as  ^ 
lawfully  esteem  all  dajs  alike,  as  others  may  es- 
teem some  days  above  another?   What  rule  giveth 
the  apostle  in  this  case? 
Romans  14.      A.  One  man  esteemeth  one  day  above  another: 
'    ■  another  esteemeth  every  day  alike.     Let  every 

man  be  fully  persuaded  in  his  own  mind.  He  that 
regardeth  the  day,  regardeth  it  unto  the  Lord:  ! 
and  he  that  regardeth  not  the  day,  to  the  Lord  he  | 
doth  not  regard  it.  He  that  eateth,  eateth  to  the  ' 
Lord,  for  he  giveth  God  thanks;  and  he  that  eat- 
eth not,  to  the  Lord  he  eateth  not,  and  giveth^ 
God  thanks. 

Q.  But  is  it  not  convenient  and  necessary,  that 

there  be  a  day  set  apart  to  meet  and  worship  God 

in?   Did  not  the  apostles  and  primitive  Christians 

use  to  meet  upon  the  first  day  of  the  week,  to 

make  their  collections,  and  to  worship? 

1  Cor.  16.        A.  Now,    concernino;    the    collection    for  the 
12  .  . 

*   "  saints,  as  I  have  given  order  to  the  churches  of 

Galatia,  even  so  do  ye.  Upon  the  first  day  of  the 

week,  let  every  one  of  you  lay  by  him  in  store,  as 

God  hath  prospered  him,  that  there  be  no  gather^ 

ings  when  I  come. 


/ 


73 
CHAP.  XI. 

Concerning  Baptism,  and  Bread  and  Wine. 

Q.  How  many  baptisms  are  there? 

A,  One  Lord,  one  faith,  one  baptism.  Eph.  4.  5. 

Q.  What  is  the  baptism? 

A.  The  like  figure  whereunto,  even  baptism,  1  Peter  3. 
doth  also  now  save  us,  (not  the  putting  away  of*'  **'*" 
the  filth  of  the  flesh,  but  the  answer  of  a  good 
conscience  toward  God,)  by  the  resurrection  of 
Jesus  Christ,  who  is  gone  into  heaven,  and  is  on 
the  right  hand  of  God;  angels,  and  authorities, 
and  powers,  being  made  subject  unto  him. 

Q.  What  saith  John  the  Baptist    of  Christ's 
baptism?  How  distinguisheth  he  it  from  his? 

A.  I  indeed  baptize  you  with  water  unto  re- Mat.  3.11. 
jpentance;  but  he  that  cometh  after  me  is  mightier 
Jthan  [,  whose  shoes  I  am  not  worthy  to  bear;  he 
ishall  baptize  you  with  the  Holy  Ghost  and  with 
fire. 

Q.  Doth  not  Christ  so  distinguish  it  also? 

A.  And  being  assembleil  together  with  them,  Acts  1.4^  5, 
commanded  them  that  they  should  not  depart  from 
Jerusalem,  but  wait  for  the  promise  of  the  Father, 
which,  saith  he,  ye  have  heard  of  me.  For  John 
truly  baptized  with  water;  but  ye  shall  be  bapti- 
zed with  the  Holy  Ghost  not  many  days  hence. 

Q.  Doth  not  the  apostle  Peter  also  observe  this? 

A.  And  as  I  began  to  speak,  the  Holy  Ghost  chapter II, 
fell  on  them,  as  on  us  at  the  beginning*    Then  re*  ^^*  ^^' 
G 


74  Barclay's  catechism. 

raembered  I  the  word  of  the  Lord,  how  that  he 
said,  John  indeed  baptized  with  watery  but  ye 
shall  be  baptized  with  the  Holy  Ghost. 

Q.  Then  it  seems  John's  baptism  must  pass 
away,  that  Christ's  may  take  place;  because  John 
must  decrease,  that  Christ  may  increase? 

John  3.30.      A.  He  must  increase,  but  I  must  decrease. 

Q.  I  perceive  then,  many  may  be  sprinkled 
■with,  and  dipped  and  baptized  in  water,  and  yet 
not  truly  baptized  with  the  baptism  of  Christ: 
What  are  the  real  effects  in  such  as  are  truly 
baptized  with  the  baptism  of  Christ.^ 

Romans  6.  A.  Know  ye  not,  that  so  many  of  us  as  were 
baptized  into  Jesus  Christ,  were  baptized  into  his 
death.^  Therefore  we  are  buried  with  him  by  bap- 
tism into  death;  that  like  as  Christ  was  raised  up 
from  the  dead  by  the  glory  of  the  Father,  even  so 
we  also  should  walk  in  newness  of  life. 

Gal.3.  27.  For  as  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized  into 
Christ,  have  put  on  Christ. 

Col.  2. 12.  Buried  with  him  in  baptism,  wherein  also  ye 
are  risen  with  him  through  the  faith  of  the  opera- 
tion of  God,  who  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead. 
Q.  I  perceive  there  was  a  baptism  of  water,,, 
which  was  John's  baptism,  and  is  therefore  by  John 
himself  contra-distinguished  from  Christ's:  was 
there  not  likewise  something  of  the  like  nature 
appointed  by  Christ  to  his  disciples,  of  eating 
bread,  and  drinkina;  v/ine,  in  remembrance  of  him? 

1  Cov  11.  o  ' 

23, 24, 25.       A.  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord  that  which 


Barclay's  cateohism.  fo 

also  I  delivered  unto  you,  That  the  Lord  Jesus, 
the  same  night  in  which  he  was  betrayed,  took 
bread:  and  when  he  had  given  thanks,  he  brake 
it,  and  said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body,  which  is 
broken  for  you:  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me. 
After  the  same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup,  when 
lie  had  supped,  saying,  This  cup  is  the  new  testa- 
ment in  my  blood:  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink 
it,  in  remembrance  of  me. 
■•■  Q.  How  long  was  this  to  continue? 

A.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  1  Cor.  11. 
,this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till  he  come. 

Q.  Did  Christ  promise  to  come  again  to  his 
disci])les.^ 

A.  I  will  not  leave  you  comfortless;  I  will  come  John  14. 
to  you.     Jesus  answered  and  said  unto  him,  If  a  ^^j^'^- 
man   love  me,   he   will   keep  my  words;   and  my 
Father  will  love  him,  and  we  will  come  unto  him, 
and  make  our  abode  with  him. 

Q.  Was  this  an  inward  coming.^ 

A.  At  that  day  ye  shall  know  that  I  am  in  my  John  14* 
Father,  and  ye  in  me,  and  I  in  you. 

Q.  But  it  would  seem,  this  was  even  practised 
by  the  church  of  Corinth,  after  Christ  was  come 
inwardly:  was  it  so,  that  there  were  certain  ap- 
pointments positively  commanded,  yea,  and  zeal- 
^ously  and  conscientiously  practised  by  the  saints 
I  of  old,  which  were  not  of  perpetual  continuance, 
nor  yet  now  needful  to  be  practised  in  the  church.^ 

A.  If  I  then,  your   Lord  and  Master,  have  14, 15/' 


TG  BARCLAY  S    CATECHISM. 

washed  jour  feet,  je  also  ought  to  wash  one  ano- 
ther's feet.  For  I  have  given  you  an  example,  j 
that  ye  should  do  as  I  have  done  to  you. 
Acisl5.  28.  For  it  seemed  good  to  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  to 
us,  to  lay  upon  you  no  greater  burden  than  these 
necessary  things;  That  ye  abstain  from  meats 
offered  to  idols,  and  from  blood,  and  from  things 
Gtrangled,  and  from  fornication:  from  which,  if  3^6- 
keep  yourselves,  ye  shall  do  well.  Fare  ye  well. 
James  5.  Is  any  sick  among  you?  let  him  call  for  the  el- 
ders  of  the  church;  and  let  them  pray  over  him, 
anointing  him  with  oil  in  the  name  of  the  Lord. 

Q.  These  commands  are  no  less  positive  than 
the  other;  yea,  some  of  them  are  asserted  as  the 
very  sense  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  as  no  less  necessa- 
ry tlian  abstaining  from  fornication;  and  yet  the 
generality  of  Protestants  have  laid  them  aside,  as 
not  of  perpetual  continuance:  but  what  other 
scri|>tures  are  there,  to  shew  that  it  is  not  neces- 
sary, t'uat  of  bread  and  wine  to  continue? 
Romans  14.  A.  For  the  kingdom  of  God  is  not  meat  and 
■^''  drink;  but  righteousness,  and  peace,  and  joy  in 

the  Holy  Ghost. 
Col.  2.  -^^^  *^^  man,  therefore,  judge  you  in  meat,  or] 

16;20to22.  jn  dnnk,  or  in  respect  of  an  holy  day,  or  of  thel 
new  moon,  or  of  the  Sabbath-days.  Wherefore, 
if  ye  be  dead  with  Christ  from  the  rudiments  of 
the  world,  why,  as  though  living  in  the  world,  are 
ye  subject  to  ordinances,  (Touch  not,  taste  not, 
handle   not:    whicli  all  are   to   perish  with    the 


/ 


BAncLAY'S    CATECHISM,  77 

J  using,)  after  the  commandments  and  doctrines  of 
men? 
1^  Q.  These  scriptures  are  very  plain,  and  say  as 
Bnuch  for  the  abolishing  of  this,  as  to  any  necessi- 
ty, as  ought  can  be  alledged  for  the  former:  but 
what  is  the  bread  then,  wherewith  the  saints  are 
to  be  nourished? 

A.  Then  Jesus  said  unto  them.  Verily,  verily,  John  6. 
I  say  unto  you,  Moses  gave  you  not  that  bread  '^'^l^^^^' 
from  heaven;  but  my  Father  giveth  you  tlie  true  48  to  58. 
bread  from  heaven.  For  the  bread  of  God  is  he 
which  Cometh  down  from  heaven,  and  giveth  life 
unto  the  world.  Then  said  they  unto  him.  Lord, 
evermore  give  us  this  bread.  And  Jesus  said  unto 
them,  I  am  the  bread  of  life:  he  that  cometh  to 
me  shall  never  hunger;  and  he  that  believeth  on 
me  shall  never  thirst.  I  am  that  bread  of  life. 
Your  fathers  did  eat  manna  in  the  wilderness, 
and  are  dead.  This  is  the  bread  which  cometh 
down  from  heaven,  that  a  man  may  eat  thereof, 
and  not  die.  I  am  the  living  bread  which  came 
down  from  heaven.  If  any  man  eat  of  this  bread 
he  shall  live  forever:  and  the  bread  that  1  will 
give  is  my  fiesh,  which  I  will  give  for  tlie  life  of 
the  world.  The  Jews  therefore,  strove  amono- 
themselves,  saying,  How  can  this  man  give  us  his 
flesh  to  eat?  Then  Jesus  said  unto  them.  Verily, 
verily,  I  say  unto  you.  Except  ye  eat  the  flesh  of 
the  Son  of  man,  and  drink  his  blood,  ye  have  no 
life  in  you.  Whoso  eateth  my  flesh;  and  drinketh 
G2 


7S  BARCLAY  S   CATECHISM. 

my  bloody  hath  eternal  life,  and  I  will  raise  him 
up  at  the  last  da}'.  For  my  flesh  is  meat  indeed, 
and  my  blood  is  drink  indeed.  He  that  eateth  my 
flesh,  and  drinketh  my  blood,  dwelleth  in  me,  and  J 
I  in  him.  As  the  living  Father  hath  sent  me,  and 
I  live  by  the  Father;  so  he  that  eateth  me,  even 
he  shall  live  by  me.  This  is  that  bread  which 
came  down  from  heaven:  not  as  your  fathers  did 
eat  manna,  and  are  dead.  He  that  eateth  of  this 
bread  shall  live  forever. 


CHAP.  xn. 

Concerning  ihe  Life  of  a  Christian,  in  general, 
what  and  how  it  ought  to  he  in  this  ivorld, 

.Q.  What  is  true  religion? 
fames  1,         A.  Pure  religion,   and   undefiled,   is  this;  To 
visit  the  fatherless  and  widows  in  their  affliction, 
and  to  keep  himself  unspotted  from  the  world. 
Q.  What  is  required  of  man.^ 
Mlcah  6.8.      A.  He  hath  shev;ed  thee,  O  man,  what  is  good; 
and  what  doth  the  Lord  require  of  thee,  but  to  do 
justly,  and  to  love  mercy,   and  to  walk  humbly 
with  thy  God.^ 
Jsa.  66.  2.         But  to  this  man  will  I  look,  even  to  him  that  is 
poor  and  of  a  contrite  spirit,  and  trembleth  at  my 
word. 

Q.  Doth  God  then  require  people  to  be  Quakers, 
to  tremble  at  his  word.^     Was  there  any  such 


among  the  saints  of  old.^ 


.1 


i 


79 


A.  Tlien  were  assembled  unto  me  every  one  Ezra  9. 4. 
that  trembled  at  the  words  of  the  God  of  Israel. 

Now  therefore,   let  us  make  a  covenant  with  Ezra  10. 3. 
our  God  to  put  away  all  the  wives,  and  such  as 
are  born  of  them,  according  to  the  counsel  of  my 
Lord,  and  of  those  that  tremble  at  the  command- 
ment of  our  God. 

Q.  It  seems  Ezra  loved  well,  and  had  a  high 
esteem  of  Quakers,  since  he  would  have  their 
counsel  followed:  do  any  other  of  the  prophets 
point  out  Quakers,  or  Tremblers,  as  God's  people? 

A.  Hear  the  word  of  the  Lord,  ye  that  tremble  Isa.  66.  5. 
at  his  word:  Your  brethren  that  hated  you,  that 
east  you  out  for  my  name's  sake,  said,  Let  the 
LoVd  be  glorified:  but  he  shall  appear  to  your  joy, 
^nd  they  shall  be  ashamed. 

And  it  shall  be  to  me  a  name  of  joy,  a  praise  Jer.  33.9. 
nd   an   honor  before  all  the  nations  of  the  earth, 
vhich  shall  hear  all  the  good  that  I  do  unto  them: 
and  they  shall  fear  and  tremble  for  all  the  good- 
ness, and  for  all  the  prosperity,  that  I  procure  un- 
I  to  it. 

Q.  The  prophets  promised  good  things  there  to 
Quakers:  AVhat  becometh  of  those  that  tremble 
not,. and  are  not  such? 

A.  Hear  now  this,  O  foolish  peoplel  and  with- jer.5, 
6ut  understanding;  which  have  eyes,  and  see  not;  ^^>'^^' 
which  have  ears,  and  hear  not:  Fear  ye  not  me? 
saith  the  Lord:  will  ye  not  tremble  at  my  pres- 
ence? &c. 


80  Barclay's  catechism. 

Q.  Arc  then  all  God's  children  Quakers?  And 
are  we  commanded  to  quake  or  tremble  in  order 
to  our  salvation,  both  under  the  law,  and  now  un- 
der the  gospel? 

Psalm  2.  A.  Serve  the  Lord  with  fear,  and  rejoice  with 
trembling. 

Daniel  6.  I  make  a  decree,  That  in  every  dominion  of  my 
kingdom,  men  tremble  and  fear  before  the  God  of 
Daniel;  for  he  is  the  living  God,  and  steadfast  for 
ever. 

Phil.  2.  12.      Work  out  your  own  salvation  with  fear  and  < 
trembling. 

Q.  What  be  the  chief  commandments? 

Mat.  22.  A.  Thou  shalt  love  the  Lord  thy  God  with  all 

37  to  40.  ^i^y  i^eart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all  thy 
mind.  This  is  the  first  and  great  commandment. 
And  the  second  is  like  unto  it,  Thou  shalt  love 
thy  neighbor  as  thyself.  On  these  two  command- 
ments hang  all  the  law  and  the  prophets. 

Q.  What  ought  a  Christian  to  seek  after  in 
the  first  place? 

Mat.  6.33.  A.  Seek  ye  first  the  kingdom  of  God,  and  his 
righteousness;  and  all  these  things  shall  be  added 
unto  you. 

Q.  How  ought  Christians  to  behave  themselves 
in  this  world? 

1  Cor.  7.         A.  But  this  I  say,  brethren,  the  time  is  short: 

"  '  '  "^  '  it  remaineth,  that  both  they  that  have  wives  be  as 
though  they  had  none;  and  they  that  weep,  as 
though  they  wept  notj   and  they  that  rejoice,   as 


/ 


Barclay's  catechism,  81 

though  they  rejoiced  not;  and  thej  that  buy,  as 
though  thej  possessed  not:  and  they  that  use  this 
world,  as  not  abusing  it:  for  the  fashion  of  this 
vorld  passeth  away. 

I  Q.  What  saith  the  a^iostle  Paul  further,  as  that 
which  is  fit  for  Christian  men  and  women  to  be 
found  in? 

.'  A.  I  will  therefore,  that  men  pray  every  where,  i  Tim.  2. 
lifting  up  holy  hands,  without  wrath  and  doubt- ^^^' ^^* 
ing.  In  like  manner  also,  that  women  adorn 
tliemselves  in  modest  apparel,  with  shame-faced- 
Bess  and  sobriety;  not  with  broidered  hair,  or 
gold,  or  pearls,  or  costly  array;  but  (which  be- 
cometh  women  professing  godliness)  with  good 
Works, 

Q.  I  observe  the  apostle  is  much  against  the 
canity  and  superiiuity  of  clothes  among  Chris- 
tians: what  saith  Peter  to  this? 

A.  Whose  adorning,  let  it  not  be  that  outward  i  Peter  3. 
adorning  of  plaiting  the  hair,  and  of  wearing  of  "^^  ' 
gold,  or  of  putting  on  of  apparel:  but  let  it  be 
the  hidden  man  of  the  heart,  in  that  which  is  not 
corruptible,  even  the  ornament  of  a  meek  and 
quiet  spirit,  which  is  in  the  sight  of  God  of  great 
^rice. 

Q.  The  apostle  is  very  plain  there:  but  what 

kaith  the  scripture,  as  to  respect  of  persons  among 

[Christians? 

A.  Mv  brethren,  have  not  the  faith  of  our  Lord  ^ 

James  2. 
Jesus  Christ,  the  Lord  of  glory,  with  respect  of  i  to  9. 


partial  in  yourselves,  and  are  become  judges  of 
evil  thoughts?     Hearken,  my  beloved  brethren,  |i 


82  Barclay's  cATECHis>f.  -1 

persons.  For  if  there  come  unto  your  assembly 
a  man  with  a  gold  ring,  in  goodly  apparelj  and 
there  come  in  also  a  poor  man  in  vile  raiment; 
and  ye  have  respect  to  him  that  vveareth  the  gay 
clothing,  and  say  unto  him,  Sit  thou  here  in  a 
good  place;  and  say  to  the  poor,  Stand  thou  there, 
or  sit  here  under  my  footstool:  are  ye  not  then 

Hath  not  God  chosen  the  poor  of  this  world  rich 
in  faith,  and  heirs  of  th«  kingdom  which  he  hath 
promised  to  them  that  love  him?  But  ye  have 
despised  the  poor.  Do  not  rich  men  oppress  jou, 
and  draw  you  before  the  judgment-seats?  Do  not 
they  blaspheme  that  worthy  name  by  the  which 
ye  are  called?  If  ye  fulfil  the  royal  law  according 
to  the  scripture,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbor  as 
thyself,  ye  do  well:  but  if  ye  have  respect  to  per- 
sons, ye  commit  sin,  and  are  convinced  of  the 
law  as  transgressors. 

Q.  Though  that  be  indeed  sufficient  to  reprove 
the  different  ranks  among  Christians,  upon  the* 
account  of  riches  or  birth;  yet  is  there  not  a  relJ 
ative  respect  among  Christians,  as  betwixt  masterj 
and  servant?  What  admonition  gives  the  apostle^ 
in  this  case? 
Eph.  6.  A,  Servants,  be  obedient  to  them  that  are  your 

^  ^®  ^-  masters  according  to  the  flesh,  with  fear  and 
trembling,  in  singleness  of  your  heart,  as  unto 
Christ:    Not  with  eye-service,  as  men-pleasers; 


I 


BARCLAY  S    CATECHISM.  83 

Ibut  as  the  servants  of  Christ,  doing  the  will  of 
God  from  the  heart;  with  good  will  doing  service, 
as  to  the  Lord,  and  not  to  men:  knowing,  that 
whatsoever  good  thing  any  man  doeth,  the  same 
shall  he  receive  of  the  Lord,  whether  he  be  bond 
or  free.  And,  ye  masters,  do  the  same  things  un- 
to them,  forbearing  threatening;  knowing  that 
your  Master  also  is  in  heaven;  neither  is  there 
respect  of  persons  with  him. 

Servants,   obey  in  all  things  your  masters  ac-  Col.  3. 
cording  to  the  flesh:  not  with  eye-service,  as  men-  *     ^  *^" 
pleasers;  but  in  singleness  of  heart,  fearing  God. 
And  whatsoever  ye  do,   do  it  heartily,   as  to  the 
Lord,   and  not  unto  men;   knowing,  that  of  the 
Lord  ye  shall   receive  the  reward  of  the  inherit- 
ance: for  ye  serve  the  Lord  Christ.     But  he  that 
doeth  wrong,   shall   receive  for  the  wrong  which 
l|e  hath  done:  and  tliere  is  no  respect  of  persons. 
'  Masters,   give  unto  your  servants  that  wiiich  is  Col.  4.1, 
just  and  equal;  knowing  that  ye  also  have  a  Mas- 
ter in  heave  rr. 

Let  as  many  servants  as  are  under  the  yoke,  i  Tim.  6. 
count  their  own  masters  worthy  of  all  honor;  that  ^»  ^' 
the  name  of  God,  and  his  doctrine,  be  not  blas- 
phemed. And  they  that  have  believing  masters, 
let  them  not  despise  them,  because  they  are  breth- 
ren; but  rather  do  them  service,  because  they  are 
faithful  and  beloved,  partakers  of  the  benefit. 
These  tilings  teach  and  exhort. 

Exhort  servants  to  be  obedient  unto  their  own  Tit.2.9,l0, 


84  Barclay's  catechism. 

masters,  and  to  please  them  well  in  all  things^ 
not  answering  again,  not  purloining,  but  shewing 
all  good  fidelitj;  that  thej  may  adorn  tlie  doctrine 
of  God  our  Saviour  in  all  things. 
1  Peter  2.  Servants,  be  subject  to  your  masters  with  all 
18  to  ^1.     ^g^j,.  ^^^  ^j^i^  ^^  ^j^g  g^^j  ^^^  gentle,  but  also  to 

the  froward.  For  this  is  thank-worthy,  if  a  man 
for  conscience  toward  God  endure  grief,  suffering 
wrongfully.  For  what  glory  is  it,  if  when  ye  be 
buffeted  for  your  faults,  ye  shall  take  it  patiently? 
but  if  when  ye  do  well,  and  suffer  for  it,  ye  take 
it  patiently,  this  is  acceptable  with  God.  For 
even  hereunto  were  ye  called;  because  Christ  also 
suffered  for  us,  leaving  us  an  example,  that  ye 
should  follow  his  steps^ 

Q.  What  good  admonitions  gives  the  scripture^ 
as  to  the  relation  betwixt  parents  and  children? 
Eph.  6.  A.  Children,  obey  your  parents   in  the  Lord, 

^°  '  for  this  is  right.  Honor  thy  father  and  mother, 
(which  is  the  first  commandment  with  promise,) 
that  it  may  be  well  with  thee,  and  thou  mayest 
live  long  on  the  earth.  And,  ye  fathers,  provoke 
not  your  children  to  wrath;  but  bring  them  up  ir 
the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord. 
Col.  3.  Children,  obey  your  parents  in  all  things;  for 

20,21.        ij^jg  jg  ^ygji  pleasing  unto  the   Lord.     Fathers^ 
provoke  not  your  children  to  anger,  lest  they  be 
discouraged. 
Q.  What  between  husbands  and  wives.^ 


i 


Barclay's  eATECHisiir.  85 

A.  Wives,  submit  yourselves  unto  your  own  Eph.  5. 

'  22  tc)  25. 

husbands,  as  unto  the  Lord.     For  the  husband  is     and 

the  head  of  the  wife,  even  as  Christ  is  the  head  28,31,  55. 
d|F  the  church:  and  he  is  the  Saviour  of  the  body. 
Therefore,  as  the  church  is  subject  unto  Christ, 
so  let  the  wives  be  to  their  own  husbands  in  eve- 
ry thing.  Husbands,  love  your  wives,  even  as 
Christ  also  loved  the  church,  and  gave  himself 
for  it:  so  ouglit  men  to  love  their  wives  as  their 
own  bodies:  he  that  loveth  his  wife,  loveth  him- 
self. For  this  cause  shall  a  man  leave  his  father 
im\  mother,  and  shall  be  joined  unto  his  wife,  and 
fliey  two  shall  be  one  fle^h.  Nevertheless,  let  ev- 
Ifery  one  of  you  in  particular  so  love  his  wife  even 
is  himself;  and  the  wife   see  that  she   reverence 

er  husband. 
Husbands,  love  your  wives,  and  be  not  bitter  Col.3. 19. 

oainst  them. 

^  Likewise,  ye  wives,  be  in  subjection  to  your  i  Peter  5. 
lown  husbands;  that  if  any  obey  not  the  word,  ^'  ^*  ^• 
they  also  may  without  the  word  be  won  by  the 
conversation  of  the  wives;  while  they  behold  your 
chaste  conversation  coupled  with  fear.  Likewise, 
ye  husbands,  dwell  with  them  according  to  know- 
Udi^e,  giving  honor  unto  the  wife,  as  unto  the 
Weaker  vessel,  and  as  being  heirs  together  of  the 
irace  of  life;  that  your  prayers  be  not  hindered, 
r  Q.  What  is  the  armour  of  a  true  Christian,  and 
Svherewith  ought  he  to  wrestle.^  ^ 

A.  Put  <.n  thei^hole  armour  of  God,  that  ye  n  to  ir. 
H 


S6  Barclay's  catechism. 

may  be  able  to  stand  against  the  wiles  of  the  <lev-  i 
il:  For  we  wrestle  not  against  flesh  and  blood, 
but  against  principalities,  against  powers,  against 
the  rulers  of  the  darkness  of  this  world,  againstf ' 
spiritual  wickedness  in  high  places.  Wherefore 
take  unto  you  the  whole  armour  of  God,  that  ye 
may  be  able  to  withstand  in  the  evil  day,  and  hav- 
ing done  all,  to  stand.  Stand  therefore,  having 
your  loins  girt  about  with  truth,  and  having  on  the 
breastplate  of  righteousness,  and  your  feet  shod 
with  the  preparation  of  the  gospel  of  peace:  Above 
all,  taking  the  shield  of  faith,  wherewith  yc  shall 
be  able  to  quench  all  the  fiery  darts  of  the  wick- 
ed. And  take  the  helmet  of  salvation,  and  the 
sword  of  the  Spirit,  which  is  the  word  of  God. 

Q,  What  are  Christian's  weapons,  and  for  what 
end? 
2  Cor.  10.  A.  For  though  we  walk  in  the  flesh,  we  do  not 
'^»  >  '  "vvar  after  the  flesh:  For  the  weapons  of  our  war- 
fare are  not  carnal,  but  mighty  through  God,  to 
the  pulling  down  of  strong  holds,  casting  down 
imaginations,  and  every  high  thing  tliat  esalteth 
itself  against  the  knowledge  of  God,  and  bringing | 
into  captivity  every  thought  to  the  obedience  of 
Christ. 

Q.  Ought  strife  and  envy  to  be  among  Chris- 
tians? 
James  3.         A.  Who  is  a  wise  man,  and  endued  with  knowl- 
lo  to  13.     gjgg  among  you?   let  him  shew,  out  of  a  good 
conversation,  his  works  with  meekness  of  wis- 


nAllCLAY's    CATECHISM.  87 

(lorn.  But  if  ye  have  bitter  envying  and  strife  in 
your  hearts,  glory  not,  and  lie  not  against  the 
•truth.  This  wisdom  descendeth  not  from  above, 
tut  is  earthly,  sensual,  devilish.  For  where  en- 
yying  and  strife  is,  there  is  confusion,  and  every 
evil  work.  But  the  wisdom  that  is  from  above,  is 
i  first  pure,  then  peaceable,  gentle,  and  easy  to  be 
entreated,  full  of  mercy  and  good  fruits,  without 
partiality,  and  without  hypocrisy.  And  the  fruit 
of  righteousness  is  sown  in  peace  of  them  that 
niake  peace. 

;    Q.  Ought  wars  to  be  among  Christians.^    From 
;t\ hence  proceed  they? 

A.  From  whence  come  wars  and  fightings  a- James  4. 
mong  you.^     Come  they  not  hence,  even  of  your    * 
(lusts,  that  war  in  your  members.^     Ye  lust,  and 
pave  not:  ye  kill,  and  desire  to  have,  and  cannot 
|obtain:  ye  fight  and  vv^ar,  yet  ye  have  not,  because 
ijq  ask  not. 

Q,  What  saith  Christ  even  of  defensive  war.^ 

A.  But  I  say  unto  you.  That  ye  resist  not  evil;  Mat.  5. 39, 
but  whosoever  shall  smite  thee  on  thy  right  cheek, 
turn  to  him  the  other  also. 

But  I  say  unto  you  which  hear,  Love  your  ene-  l^^^  6^ 
mies;  do  good  to  them  which  hate  you:  bless  them  ^"^  ^^  ^' 
that  curse  you,  and  pray  for  them  which  despite- 
fully  use  you.     And  unto  him  that  smiteth  thee 
/on  the  one  cheek,  offer  also  the  otherj  and  him 


88  BAHCLAV'S    eATEflHISaf. 

that  taketh  away  thy  cloak,  forbid  not  to  take  tlyr 

coat  also. 

Q.  What  saith  the  apostles? 
'Rom.12.17.      A,  Recompense  to  no  man  evil  for  evil. 
1  Peter  3.       ^ot  rendering  evil  for  evil,  or  railing  for  rail? 
^'  ing;  bat  contrariwise,  blessing;  knowing  that  je,  i 

are  thereunto  called,    that  je  should  inherit  a 

blessing. 
lThe§.  5.        Sec  that  none  render  evil  for  evil  unto  any 
^^'  man;  but  ever  follow  that  which  is  good,  botli 

among  yourselves,  and  to  all  men. 

Q.  It  was  lawful  of  old  to  swear;  and  an  oatli 

for  confirmation  was  to  them  an  end  of  all  strife: 

Is  it  not  lawful  fur  Christians  also  to  swear? 
Mat.  5.  A.  Again,  ye  have  heard  that  it  hath  been  said 

33  to  3/.      j^^  ^j^g^  ^^  Qj^l  j^jj^g^  •j'l^QU  gj^^l^  „Qt  forswear  thy- 

self,  but  shalt  perform  unto  the  Lord  thine  oaths. 
But  I  say  unto  you,  Swear  not  at  all:  neither  bj| 
heaven,  for  it  is  God's  throne;  nor  by  the   earth,  | 
for  it  is  his  footstool;  neither  by  Jerusalem,  for  it) 
is  the  city  of  the  great  King:  neither  shalt  thou 
swear  by  thy  head,  because  thou  canst  not  make  i 
one  hair  white  or  black.     But  let  your  communi- 
cation be,  Yea,  yea;  Nay,  nay;  for  whatsoever  is 
more  than  these,  cometh  of  evil. 

James  5.         3^"t  above  all  things,  my  brethren,  swear  not>; 

^^'  neither  by  heaven,  neither  by  the  earth,  neither  ' 

by  any  other  oath:  but  let  your  yea  be  yea,  and 
your  nay,  nay;  lest  ve  fall  into  condemnation. 


Barclay's  oatechism.  89 

Q.  Is  It  fit  for  Christians  or  believers  to  receive 
carnal  and  worldly  honor  one  from  another? 

A.  How  can  ye  believe,  which  receive  honor  John  S.  44. 
pne  of  another,  and  seek  not  the  honor  that  com- 
Mh  from  God  only? 

Q.  Doth  God  allow  us  to  give  Mattering  titles 
to  men? 

A.  Let  me  not,  I  pray  you,  accept  any  man's  Job  32. 

91   22 

person;  neither  let  me  give  flattering  titles  unto     '     * 
man.     For  I  know  not  to  give  flattering  titles:  in 

!o  doing  my  Maker  would  soon  take  me  away. 
Q.   What  should  we  say  to  such  as  quarrel  with 
s  for  speaking  proper,  sound  words,  as,  thou  to 
one,  you  to  many;  which  is  Christ's  and  the  saints' 
language  in  the  scripture? 

A.  If  any  man  teach  otherwise,  and  consent  1  Tim.  6. 
not  to  wholesome  words,  even  the  w^ords  of  our  ^*  ' 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  to  the  doctrine  which  is 
according  to  godliness,  he  is  proud,  knowing  no- 
Uhing,  but  doting  about  questions,  and  strifes  of 
'^'Svords,  whereof  cometh  envy,  strife,  railings,  evil 
surmisings. 

Hold  fast  the  form  of  sound  words,  which  thou  2  Tim.  1. 
hast  heard  of  me,  in  faith  and  love  which  is  in  ^'^' 
Christ  Jesus. 

Q.  What  is  the  great  commandment  given  by 
/Christ  to  his  disciples,  as  that  -vhich  even  decla- 
I  reth  them  to  be  such,  and  is  also  pressed  by  his 

apostles? 

A      A  IT.  r^.       John  13. 

.  A.  A  new  commaadment  I  give  imtoyou.  That  34.35. 
Hi2 


90  BASCLAY'S    CATECHISM. 

ye  love  one  anotlier;  as  I  have  loved  you.  that  ye 
also  love  one  another.  By  this  shall  all  men  know 
that  ye  are  my  disciples,  if  ye  have  love  one  to 
another. 
John  lof.         This  is  my  commandment,  That  ve  love  one 

12  ir  ' . 

*     '        anothePj  as  I  have  loved  you.  These  things  I  com- 
mand you,  that  ye  love  one  another. 
Eph.  5.  Be  ye  therefore,   followers  of  God,    as  deac 

*   *  children;  and  walk  in  love,   as  Christ  also  hath  \. 

loved  lis,  and  hath  given  himself  for  us,  an  oWev^ 


ino-  and  a  sacrifice  to  God  for  a  sweet  smellin 


savour 


B 


1  Tohn  4.        If  a  man  say,  I  love  God,  and  hateth  his  broth- 
20.  21.  , 

er,  he  is  a  liar;  for  he  that  ioveth  not  his  brother 

whom  he  hath  seen,  how  can  he  love  God  whom 
he  hath  not  seen.^  And  this  commandment  have 
we  from  him.  That  he  who  Ioveth  God  love  his 
brother  also. 

Q.  Is  humility  very  needful  to  Christians?  what 
like  must  we  be  ere  v,'e  can  enter  the  kingdom? 
Mat.  18,  A.  And  Jesus  said,  Verily,  I  say  unto  you,  ex- 

^'   '  cept  ye  be  converted,  and  become  as  little  chiN 

dren,  ye  shall  not  enter  into  the  kingdom  of  heav- 
en.    Whosoever,  therefore,  shall  humble  himself| 
as  ,this  little  child,  the   same  is  greatest  in  the* 
kingdom  of  heaven. 

Q.  Ought  Christians  to  lord  over  one  another? 
what  rule  giveth  Christ  in  this  case? 
Mat  20.  A.  But  Jesus  called  them  unto  him,  and  said^ 

25  to  28.     Yq  know  that  the  princes  of  the  Gentiles  exercise 


BARCLAY'S    CATECHISM.  91 

dominion  over  them,  and  they  that  are  great  ex- 
ercise authority  upon  them.  But  it  shall  not  be 
tso  among  you;  but  whosoever  will  be  great  among 
ou,  let  him  be  your  minister;  and  whosoever 
ill  be  chief  among  you,  let  him  be  your  servant: 
Even  as  the  Son  of  man  came  not  to  be  ministered 
unto,  but  to  minister,  and  to  give  his  life  a  ransom 
for  many. 

Q.  How  then  are  Christians  in  this  world. ^ 

A.  Behold,  I  send   you  forth   as  sheep  in  the  Mat.lO.JS, 
iaidst  of  wolves;    be  ye  therefore,  wise  as  ser- 
pents, and  harmless  as  doves. 

'    Go  your  ways:    behold,   I  send  you   forth  aSL^j^elO/S. 
lambs  among  wolves. 

'     Q.  Are  we  then  to  expect  affliction  and   perse- 
cution here? 

A.  And  ye  shall  be  hated  of  all  men  for  my  Mat.lO.  ^, 
aame's  sake;  but  he  that  endureth  to  the  end  ^*^'^''  ^'  ^' 
shall  be  saved. 

And  ye  shall  be  hated  of  all  men  for  my  name's  Luke  21. 
sake.  ^^• 

If  the  world  hate  you,   ye  know  that  it  hated  John  1^, 
me  before  it  hated  you.    If  ye  were  of  the  w^orid,     '     ' 
the  world  would  love  his  own;  but  I  have  chosen 
you  out  of  the  world,  therefore  the  world  hateth 
jou. 

:    These  things  have  I  spoken  unto  you,   that  in  Johnl6.3o. 
fme  ye  might  have  peace.     In  the  world  ye  shall 
have  tribulation;    but  be  of  good  cheer,  I  have 
overcome  the  world.  » 


9^  Barclay's  cATECHisi>r. 

2  Tim.  3.  And  all  that  will  live  godly  in  Christ  Jesus,! 
shall  suffer  persecution. 

Q.  Ought  we  then  to  fear  persecution? 

Mat.  10.  A.'  Fear  not  them  which  kill  the  body,  but  are 

notable  to  kill  the  soui:  but  rather  fear  him  which 
is  able  to  destroy  both  soul  and  body  in  hell. 

Luke  12.         And  I  say  unto  you,  my  friends,  be  not  afraid 

^'  ^'  of  them  that  kill  the  body,  and  after  that,  have 

no  more  that  they  can  do.  But  I  will  forewarn 
you  whom  ye  shall,  fear:  Fear  him  which,  after  he 
hath  killed,  hath  power  to  cast  into  hellj  yea,  I 
say  unto  you,  fear  him. 

Q.  What  advantage  is  to  them  that  suffer  per- 
secution cheerfully,  and  hazard  to  them  that  shun 
it.? 

^at.  5.10.  A.  Blessed  are  they  which  are  persecuted  for 
righteousness  sake;  for  theirs  is  the  kingdom  of 
heaven. 

1  Peter  3.       ^"*  ^^  J®  suffer  for  righteousness  sake,  happy 

14.  are  ye;  and  be  not  afraid  of  their  terror,  neither 

be  troubled. 

Mat  10.  Whosoever  therefore,  shall  confess  me  beforci 

men,   him   will  I  confess  also  before  my  Fathen 


32,33 
2,7  to  39. 


which  is  in  heaven.     But  whosoever  shall  den^ 


me  before  men,  him   will   I  also  deny  before  m 
Father  which  is  in  heaven.     He  that  loveth  father 
or  mother  more  than  me,  is  not  worthy  of  me. — 
And  he  that  taketli  not  his   cross,  and   followeth 
after  me,  is  not  worthy  of  me.    He  that  findeth 


V 


BARCLAY'S    CATESHISM.  93 

his  life  shall  lose  it;  and  he  that  ioseth  his  life  for 

my  sake,  shall  find  it. 

Also  I  saj  unto  you,  whosoever  shall  confess  Luke  12, 
e  before  men,  him  shall  the   Son  of  man  also 
onfess  before  the  angels  of  God.     But  he  that 

denieth  me  before  men,  shall  be  denied  before  the 

angels  of  God. 

Then  said  Jesus  unto  his  disciples,  If  any  man  Mat.  16. 

24  25 
will  come  after  me,   let  him  deny  himself,  and     ' 

^^ke  up  his  cross,  and  follow  me.    For  whosoever 

11  save  his  life  shall  lose  it;  and  whosoever  will 

ose  his  life  for  my  sake,  shall  find  it. 

If  we  suffer,  we  shall  also  reio;n  with  him:  if2Tim.  2. 

12 
re  deny  him,  he  also  will  deny^s. 

\    If  any  man  coriie  to  me,  and  hate  Jii^jL  his  father,  Luke  14. 
md  mother,  and  wife,  and  children,  and  bretlia^en, 
ind  sisters,  yea,  and  his  own  life  also,  he  cannot 
)e  my  disciple. 

And  he  said  to  them  all,  If  any  man  will  come  chapter 9. 
.after  me,  let  him  deny  himself,  and  take  up  his     *     '' 
cross  daily,  and  follow  me.     For  whosoever  will 
save  his  life  shall  lose  it:  but  whosoever  will  lose 
his  life  for  ray  sake,  the  same  shall  save  it. 

And  when  he  had  called  the  people  unto  him,  Mark  8, 
with  his  disciples  also,  he  said  unto  them,  Who- "^  '  *^^* 
^oever  will  come  after  me,  let  him  deny  himself, 
^nd  take  up  his  cross,  and  follow  me.  For  who- 
msoever will  save  his  life  shall  lose  it;  but  whoso- 
ever shall  lose  his  life  for  my  sake  and  the  gos- 
pel's, the  same  shall  save  it. 


I 

'i 

94  Barclay's  catechism.       -  \ 

Q.  There  is  nothing  more  certain,  according  to 
these  scriptures,  than  that  Christians  must  suffer 
persecution  in  this  world,  even  in  their  persons 
and  estates;  but  shall  thev  not  also  suffer  in  theii^i 
good  names,  in  being  accounted  blasphemers,  her 
etics  and  deceivers? 

Mat.  10.  A.  The  disciple  is  not  above  his  master,  tiori 

24  25.  '  -  1 

"  '     '        the  servant  above  his  lord.     It  is  enough  for  the  i 

disciple,  that  he  be  as  his  masler,  and  the  servant 

as  his  lord.  If  they  have  cilled  the  master  of  the  | 

house  Beelzebub,  how  much  more  shall  they  call 

them  of  his  household? 

Mat.  5. 11.      Blessed  are  ye  v^^hen  men  shall  revile  you,  and 

persecute  you,  and  shall  say  all  manner  of  evil 

against  yoj^  falsely  for  my  sake. 

Acts  6.  Then  they  suborned  men,  vi^hich  said.  We  have 

11  12 
'     *        heard  him  speak  blasphemous  words  against  Mo- 
ses, and  against   God.     And  they  stirred  up  th^ 
people,  and  the  elders,  and  the  scribes,  and  cam^i 
upon  him,  and  caught  him,  and  brought  him 
the  council. 

Acts  17.  6.      And  when  they  found  f.hem  not,  they  drew  Ja-j 
son  and  certain  brethren,  unto  the  rulers  of  th( 
city,  crying.  These  that  have  turned  the  world 
upside  down,  are  come  hither  also. 

Acts  24.  But  this  I  confess  unto  thee,  that  after  the  way 

which  they  call  heresy,  so  worship  I  the  God  of 
my  fathers;  believing  all  things  which  are  written 

-  -,      .      in  the  law  and  in  the  prophets. 

13.  •  Being  defamed,  we  entreat:   we  are  made  as 


95 

the  filth  of  the  world,  and  are  the  off-scouring  of 
all  things  unto  this  day, 

V  )jy  honor  and  dishonor,  by  evil  report  and  good  2  Cor.  6. 8. 
nport;  as  deceivers,  and  yet  true. 

■  Q.  It  is  easily  apparent  from  what  is  mention- 
ed, that  Christians  are  to  expect  persecution  and 
tribulation;  and  that  they  are  always  the  sheep, 
and  never  the  wolves;  the  persecuted,  and  never 
the  persecutors;  the  afflicted,  and  not  the  afflict-  ' 

ers;  the  reproached,  and  not  the  reproachers:  Is 
it  not  fit  then  that  Christians  be  so  far  from  per- 
Sfcuting  others,  that  they  ought  to  pray  for  their 

rsecutors?  Is  this  Christ's  command? 

A.  But  I  say  unto  you,  love  your  enemies,  bless  Mat.  5.  44. 
;^em  that  curse  you,  do  good  to  them  that  hate 

u,  and  pray  for  them  which  despitefully  us© 

u  and  persecute  you. 

Q.  Was  this  Christ's  own  practice? 

A.  Then  said  Jesus,  Father,  forgive  them,  for  Luke  23. 


I 


ey  know  not  what  they  do,  &c.  ^^' 

Q.  Is  Christ  herein  to  be  our  example? 

A.  For  even  hereunto  were  ye  called;  because  i  Peter2. 
Christ  also  suffered  for  us,  leaving  us  an  example,  ^^»  ^^»  ^* 
that  ye  should  follow  his  steps:  who  did  no  sin, 
neither  was  guile  found  in  his  mouth:  who,  when 
he  was  reviled,  reviled  not  again;  when  he  suffer- 
ed, he  threatened  not;  but  committed  himself  to 
Km  that  judgeth  righteously. 

Q.  Is  there  an  instance  of  any  saint  in  scripture 
who  followed  his  example  herein? 


96  Barclay's  catechism. 

Acts  7.  60.  A.  And  he  kneeled  down,  and  cried  with  a  ' 
loud  voice,  Lord,  lay  not  this  sin  to  their  1 
charge,  &c.  ; 

Q.  It  appears  by  all  these  scriptures,  that  chris-» 
tianity  consisteth  in  the  exercise  of  fear  and 
trembling,  humility,  patience  and  self  denials 
What  ought  we  then  to  think  of  such  who  place 
much  of  their  religion  in  abstaining  from  mar- 
riage, and  certain  meats;  worshipping  of  angels, 
and  other  such  acts  of  voluntary  humility? 

ITlm.  4.        A.  Now,  the  Spirit  speaketh  expressly,  that  in 

^''  '^'  the  latter  times  some  shall  depart  from  the  faith, 
giving  heed  to  seducing  spirits,  and  doctrines  of 
devils;  speaking  lies  in  hypocrisy;  having  their 
conscience  seared  with  a  hot  iron;  forbidding  to 
marry,  and  commanding  to  abstain  from  meats, 
which  God  harh  created  to  be  received  with 
thanksgiving  of  them  which  believe  and  know  thei 
truth.  I 

Col. 2. 18.  Let  no  man  beguile  you  of  your  reward,  in  ai 
voluntary  humility,  and  worshipping  of  angels, 
intrudino:  into  tiiose  things  which  he  hath  not! 
seeDj  vainly  puffed  up  by  his  fleshly  mind. 


Barclay's  catechism,  ^7 

CHAP.  XIII. 

Concerning  Magistracy, 

\     Q.  What  is  the  duty  of  a  magistrate? 
j     A.  The  God  of  Israel  said,  the  Rock  of  Israel  2  Sam.  25, 
'spake  to  me;  He  that  ruleth  over  men  must  be  "*' 
just,  ruling  in  the  fear  of  God. 

Q.  What  do  the  scriptures  speak  of  the  duty 
of  such  as  are  under  authority? 

A.  Let  every  soul  be  subject  unto  the  higher  Romansl^. 
jpowers;  for  there  is  no  power  but  of  God:  the  ^  ^°  ^' 
powers  that  be,  are  ordained  of  God.  Whosoever, 
therefore,  resisteth  the  power,  resisteth  the  ordi- 
nance of  God;  and  they  that  resist,  shall  receive 
to  themselves  damnation.  For  rulers  are  not  a 
terror  to  good  works,  but  to  the  evil.  Wilt  thou 
then  not  be  afraid  of  the  power?  Do  that  which 
is  good,  and  thou  shalt  have  praise  of  the  same; 
for  he  is  the  minister  of  God  to  thee  for  good.— 
But  if  thou  do  that  which  is  evil,  be  afraid:  for  he 
beareth  not  the  sword  in  vain;  for  he  is  the  min- 
ister of  God,  a  revenger  to  execute  wrath  upon 
him  that  doeth  evil.  Wherefore  ye  must  needs 
be  subject,  not  only  for  wrath,  but  also  for  con- 
science sake. 

Submit  yourselves  to  every  ordinance  of  man  1  Peter  2. 
^or  the  Lord's  sake;  whether  it  be  to  the  king,  as      ^^ 
/supreme;  or  unto  governors,  as  unto  them  that  are 
sent  by  him  for  the  punishment  of  evil  doer  s,  and 
for  the  praise  of  them  that  do  well.    For  so  is  the 


98  Barclay's  catechism. 

w\\\  of  God,  that  with  well  doing  ye  may  put  to 
silence  the  ignorance  of  foolish  men. 
Q.  Ought  tribute  to  be  paid  to  them? 

Rom.  13,         A.  For,  for  this  cause  pay  ye  tribute  also;  for 
*  they  are  God's  ministers,  attending  continually, 

upon  this  very  thing.  Render,  therefore,  to  all 
their  dues:  tribute,  to  whom  tribute  is  due;  cus- 
tom, to  whom  custom;  fear,  to  whom  fear;  honor, 
to  whom  honor. 

Mat.  23.  Then  saith  he  unto  them,   Render,  therefore, 

unto  Cesar,  the  things  which  are  Cesar's;  and  un- 
to God,  the  things  that  are  God's. 

Q.  Are  we  obliged  to  obey  magistrates  in  such 
things  as  we  are  persuaded  in  our  minds  are  con- 
trary to  the  commands  of  Christ.^ 

Acts  4.  A.  And  they  called  them,  and  commanded  them 

18  to  20.  jjQ^  ^Q  speak  at  all,  nor  teach,  in  the  name  of  Je= 
sus.  But  Peter  and  John  answered  and  said  unto 
them,  Whether  it  be  right  in  the  sight  of  God,  to 
hearken  unto  you  more  than  unto  God,  judge  ye. 
For  we  cannot  but  speak  the  things  which  ^ve 
have  seen  and  heard.  i 

chapter  5.       And  when  they  had  brought  them,  they  set  themf 

C^y     CJQ     cyq  ' 

'*'  ''  ' "  4)efore  the  council:  and  the  high  priest  asked  them, 
saying,  Did  not  we  straitly  command  you,  that  ye 
should  not  teach  in  this  name.^  and  behold,  ye 
have  filled  Jerusalem  with  your  doctrine,  and  in- 
tend to  bring  this  man's  blood  upon  us.  Then 
Peter  and  the  other  apostles  answered,  and  saidy 
We  ought  to  obey  God  rather  than  men. 


1 


Barclay's  catechism.  99 


/ 

f  '  Q.  What  ought  to  be  magistrates'  behaviour  in 
such  cases,  according  to  the  counsel  of  wise  Ga- 
maliel? 

A.  Then  stood  there  up  one  in  the  council,  a  Acts 5.34, 
.  35  38  39 

'Pharisee,  named  Gamaliel,   a  doctor  of  the  law,     *     ' 

had  in  reputation  among  all  the  people,  and  com- 
manded to  put  the  apostles  forth  a  little  space, 
and  said  unto  them,  Ye  men  of  Israel,  take  heed 
to  yourselves  what  je  intend  to  do  as  touching 
.'these  men.     And  now,    I  say  unto  you,   refrain 
jfrom  these  men,   and  let  them  alone;  for  if  this 
I  counsel,  or  this  work,  be  of  men,  it  will  come  to 
f  nought:  but  if  it  be  of  God,  ye  cannot  overthrow 
it,  lest  haply  ye  be  found  even  to  fight  against 
Go^. 

Q.  What  command  giveth  Christ  to  his  people 
under  the  gospel,  in  relation  to  this  matter?  How 
doth  he  hold  forth  their  duty  under  the  parable 
of  the  tares? 

A.  So  the  servants  of  the  householder  came  and  Mat.  15. 

<yjr    OQ     OCT- 

said  unto  him.  Sir,  didst  not  thou  sow  good  seed  *  * 
in  thy  field?  from  whence  then  hath  it  tares?  He 
said  unto  them,  An  enemy  hath  done  this.  The 
servants  said  unto  him.  Wilt  thou  then  that  we 
go  and  gather  them  up?  But  he  said,  Nay;  lest 
while  ye  gather  up  the  tares,  ye  root  up  also  the 
wheat  with  them. 

Q.  Doth  he  explain  these  tares  of  the  wicked, 
whom  the  godly  must  not  take  upon  them  to  cuC 


100 

off,  lest  through  mistake  they  hurt  the  gooclj  BUf 
leave  it  to  God,  to  do  it  by  his  angels? 

A.  The  field  is  the  world;  the  good  seed  are 
the  children  of  the  kingdom;  but  the  tares  are  the 
children  of  the  wicked  one;  the  enemy  that  sowed 
them  is  the  devil;  the  harvest  is  the  end  of  the 
world;  and  the  reapers  are  the  angels.  As,  there- 
fore, the  tares  are  gathered  and  burned  in  the  fire, 
so  shall  it  be  in  the  end  of  this  world.  The  Son 
of  man  shall  send  forth  his  angels,  and  they  shall 
gather  out  of  his  kingdom  all  things  that  offend, 
and  them  which  do  iniquity.. 

CHAP.  xiy. 

Concerning  the  Resurrection* 

Q.  What  saith  the  scripture  of  the  resurrection 
of  the  dead? 

A.  And  have  hope  towards  God,  which  the/ 
themselves  also  allow,  that  there  shall  be  a  resur- 
rection of  the  dead,  both  of  the  just  and  unjust. 

Q.  To  what  different  end  shall  the  good  be 
raised  from  the  bad?  and  how  are  they  thereunto 
reserved? 

A.  Marvel  not  at  this;  for  the  hour  is  coming, 
in  the  which  all  that  are  in  the  graves  shall  hear 
his  voice,  and  shall  come  forth;  they  that  have 
done  good,  unto  the  resurrection  of  life:  and  they 
that  have  done  evil,  unto  the  resurrection  of  dam* 
pation. 


Barclay's  catechism.  lOl 

But  the  heavens  and  the  earth  which  are  now,  2  Pet.  3.7» 
by  the  same  word  are  kept  in  store,  reserved  unto 

I  fire  against  the  day  of  judgment,  and  perdition 
of  ungodly  men. 

I    Q.  What  must  be  answered  to  such  as  ask,  how 

^the  dead  are  raised,  and  with  what  body? 

'  A.  Thou  fool,  that  which  thou  sowest  is  not  1  Cor.  15. 
quickened  except  it  die.  And  that  which  thou^  ^^ 
sowest,  thou  sowest  not  that  body  that  shall  be, 
but  bare  grain,  it  may  chance  of  wheat,  or  of  some 
other  grain:  But  God  giveth  it  a  body  as  it  hath 
pleased  him,  and  to  every  seed  his  own  body.  All 
flesh  is  not  the  same  flesh;  but  there  is  one  kind 
of  flesh  of  men,  another  flesh  of  beasts,  another 

\  of  fishes,  and  another  of  birds.  There  are  also 
celestial  bodies,  and  bodies  terrestrial;  but.  the 
glory  of  the  celestial  is  one,  and  the  glory  of  the 
terrestrial  is  another.  There  is  one  glory  of  the 
sun,  and  another'glory  of  the  moon,  and  another 
glory  of  the  stars;  for  one  star  differeth  from  an- 
other star  in  glory.  So  also  is  the  resurrection  of 
the  dead:  It  is  sown  in  corruption,  it  is  raised  in 
incorruption:  it  is  sown  in  dishonor,  it  is  raised 
in  glory:  it  is  sown  in  weakness,  it  is  raised  in 
power:  it  is  sown  a  natural  body,  it  is  raised  a 
spiritual  body.  There  is  a  natural  body,  and 
there  is  a  spiritual  body. 

Q.  The  apostle  seems  to  be  very  positive,   that 
it  is  not  that  natural  body,   which  we  now  have, 
that  shall  risej  but  a  spiritual  body, 
12 


1Q2        Barclay's  catechisms. 

A.  Now  this  I  saj,  brethren,  that  flesh  and 
blood  cannot  inherit  the  kingdom  of  God;  neither 
doth  corruption  inherit  incorruption.  Behold,  I 
shew  you  a  mystery:  We  shall  not  all  sleep,  but 
we  shall  all  be  changed,  ia  a  moment,  in  the 
twinkling  of  an  eye,  at  the  last  trump;  for  the 
trumpet  shall  sound,  and  the  dead  shall  be  raised 
incorruptible,  and  we  shall  be  changed.  For  this 
corruptible  must  put  on  incorruption;  and  this 
mortal  must  put  on  immortality.  So  when  this 
corruptible  shall  have  put  on  incorruption,  and  this 
mortal  shall  have  put  on  immortality,  then  shall 
be  brought  to  pass  the  saying  that  is  written, . 
Death  is  swallowed  up  in  victory!  O  death!  whei^ 
is  thy  sting?   0  grave!   where  is  thy  victory? 


I 


rXTRODUCTItN  TO  THE  OONFESSJOKT,  108 

CHAP.  XV. 

fi  short  Introduction  to  the  Confession  of  Faith, 

\Having  thus  largely  and  evidently  performed 
tlie  chief  part  of  that  which  I  promised  in  this 
treatise,  in  giving  a  full  account  of  our  principles 
in  plain  scripture  words,  and  also,  answering  by 
the  scriptures  the  chief  and  main  objections  made 
against  us,  I  come  to  a  Confession  of  Faith,  ia 
which  I  shall  not  be  so  large;  for  that  I  judge  it 
not  convenient  to  make  an  inter-repetition  of  all 
the  scriptures  before  mentioned,  which,  if  need- 
ful, the  reader  may  easily  observe,  were  not  very 
difficult  to  do.  But  whereas  a  confession  of  faith 
oalleth  rather  for  an  affirmative  account  of  one's 
own  faith,  than  for  the  solution  of  objections,  or 
any  thing  of  debate  in  a  discursive  way,  which  is 
both  more  properly  and  pertinently  performed  in 
a  catechism;  therefore  I  have  here  only  done  so, 
1  am  necessitated  sometimes  to  intermix  some 
words  for  coherence  of  the  matter,  as  sometimes 
(and,)  and  sometimes  (therefore,)  and  the  like} 
but  not  such  as  any  ingenuous  person  can  affirm, 
do  add  to  the  matter;  or  that  may  any  wise  justly 
be  reckoned  a  comment  or  meaning:  and  therefore 
to  avoid  the  censure  of  the  most  curious,  carping 
piitic,  these  are  marked  with  a  different  charac- 
ter. Likewise,  unless  I  should  have  ridiculously- 
offered  to  publish  incongruous  grammar,  there  was 
a  true  aeed  sometimes  to  change  tlie  mood  and 


104  INTRODUCTION  TO  THE  CONFESSION, 

person  of  a  verb:  in  all  which  places,  whosoevei 
will  look,  to  the  words,  shall  find  it  is  done  upon 
no  design  to  alter  any  whit  the  naked  import  ot 
them:  as  for  instance,  where  Christ  says,  I  am  tlie 
light  of  the  world:  were  it  proper  for  me  to  write 
thus,  I  am  the  light,  &c.?  Or  can  it  be  reckoned  !' 
any  whit  contradicting  to  my  purpose  or  promise 
to  write,  Christ  is  the  light,  where  the  first  person 
is  changed  to  the  third?  Also,^sometimes  I  express 
things  which  are  necessarily  understood,  as  when 
any  of  the  aposHes  say,  we$  there,  instead  of  ive^ 
I  write  apostles;  and  where  they  say  youy  speak- 
ing to  the  saints — there  I  mention  saints  instead 
of  it,  for  the  connexion  of  the  sentence  sometimefttj 
requires  it;  as  in  the  first  article,  in  mentioning 
that  of  1  John  i.  5.  concerning  God's  being  light, 
and  in  such  like  cases,  which  I  know  no  impartial 
reader  would  have  quarrelled  with,  though  want- 
ing this  apology,  which  I  judged  meet  to  premise, 
knowing  there  is  a  generation,  who  when  they 
cannot  find  any  real  or  substantial  ground  against 
truth  and  its  followers,  will  be  cavilling  at  such 
little  niceties;  therefore  such  may  see  this  object 
tioii  is  obviated. 


tlONEESSION    OF    FAX'f'iR  lp5 

CHAP.  XYI. 

A  CONFESSION   OF   FAITH, 
CONTAINING  XXIII  ARTICLES. 


ARTICLE  I. 

t^^oncerning  God,  and  the  true  and  saving  JcnowU 
edge  of  Him, 

There  is  one  God  a.     WJio  is  a  Spirit  b.    Md  aEph- 4.  Q, 
his  is  the  message  which  tlie  apostles  heard  of4  e. 
iim,  and  declared  unto  the  saints,  that  he  is  light,  WohTi4.24, 

nd  in  him  is  no  darkness  at  all  c.      There  are  clJohnl.5. 
hree  that  bear  record  in  heaven,  the  Father,  the 
IVord,  and  the  Holj  Ghost,  and  these  three  are 
)ne  d.     The  Father  is  in  the  Son,  and  the  Son  is  ^ch.  5.7. 
n  the  Father  e.      No  man  knoweth  the  Son,  but  e  John  10. 
he  Father;  neither  knoweth  any  man  the  Father,  '^^^  ilf^^j^ 
^ut  the  Son,  and  he  to  whomsoever  the  Son  will  5.  26. 
reveal  him  /.      The  Spirit  searcheth  all  things,  27.  ^ 
rea,  the  deep  things  of  God  g.     For  the  things  of  ^"^^^^^f' 

od  knoweth  no  man  but  the  Spirit  of  God:  Now  10. 
the    saints    have  received   not  the  spirit  of  the 
jvorld,  but  the  Spirit  which  is  of  God,  that  they 
night  know  the  things  which  are  freely  given 
Ihem  of  God  h.     For  the  Comforter,  which  is  the  hi  Cor.  2. 
Holy  Ghost,  whom  the  Father  sends  in  ChrisVs  ^^'  ^2' 
iame,  he  teacheth  them  all  things,  and  bringeth 
|ill  things  to  their  remembrance  i.  2^. 


i06  eONFESSION    OF    FAITH. 

ARTICLE  II. 

Concerning  the  guide  and  rule  of  Christians, 

C/ir£sfj[?rttyec?  to  the  Father,  and  he  gave  ih\ 

saints  another  Comforter,  tliat  was  to  abide  with 

them  for  ever,  even  the  Spirit  of  Truth,  whom  the 

world  cannot  receive,  because  it  seeth  him  not 

nor  knoweth  him;  but  the  saints  know  him;  forht 

kJohn  14.    dwelleth  with  them,  and  is  to  be  in  them  k,     Nov 
16,  XT'. 

if  any  man  have  not  the  ispirit  of  Christ,  he  is 

none  of  his:  For  as  many  as  are  led  by  the  Spirii 

/Romans 8.  of  God,  they  are  the  sons  of  God  I.     For  this  \i 

'     '  the  covenant  that  God  hath  made  with  the  house 

of  Israel,  he  hath  put  his  laws  in  their  mind,  and" 

writ  them  in  their  hearts;  and  they  are  all  taughl 
mUeh.  8.  of  God  m.  ^nd  the  anointing,  which  they  have!; 
XO,  11.         received  of  him,  abideth  in  them;  and  they  need? 

not  that  any   nian   teach  them,  but  as  the  same^ 

anointing  teacheth  them  of  all  things,  and  is  truth.' 
«1  John  2.       ,  .         ,. 
^,  and  IS  no  lie  ?i. 

ARTICLE  in. 

Concerning  the  Scriptures,  J 

Whatsoever  things  were  written  aforetime, 
were  writte.i  for  our  learning,  that  we  through 
patience  and  comfort  of  the  scriptures  might  have 
ijHom.  15.  hs>pe  o.  Which  are  able,  to  make  wise  unto  sal- 
.  vation.  through  faith  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus:  All 
scripture  bfing  given  by  inspiiation  of  God,  and 
is  profitable  for  doctrine,  for  reprooof,  for  instruc 


CONFESSION    OF    FAITH.  107 

ilon  In  righteousness,  that  the  man  of  God  may 

)e    perfect,    throughly  furnished  unto  all  good 

ivorks  2?.     No  prophecy  of  the  scripture  is  of  any  p2  Tim  5. 

private  interpretation;  for  the  prophecy  came  not     »     '  "• 

in  old  time  bj  the  will  of  man,  but  holy  men  of 

God    spake  as  they  were  moved  by  the    Holy  ^3  Peter  1. 

Ghost  y.  20,21. 


ARTICLE  IV. 

Concerning  the  divinity  of  Christ,  and  his  being 
from  the  beginning. 

In  the  beginning  was  the  Word,  and  the  Word 
was  with  God,  and  the  Word  was  God;  the  same 
Ws  in  the  beginning  with  God;    all   things   were 
imade  by  him,  and  without  him  was  not  any  thing 
imade  that  was  made  r.     Whose  goings  forth  have  1,  2,  3. 
been  from  of  old,  from  everlasting  s.     For  God 
[Created  all  things  by  Jesus  Christ  t.      WI10  being  ^Eph.  3.  9. 
in  the  form  of  God,  thought  it  no  robbery  to  be 
equal  with  God  u.     And  his  name  is  called  Won-  «phii.  2.6. 
derful,  Counsellor,  the  mighty  God,  the  everlas- 
ting Father,  the  Prince  of  Peace  x.     Who  is  the  ^isa.  9. 6, 
image  of  the  invisible  God,  the  first-born  of  every 
creature  y.     The  brightness  of  the  Fatlier's  glory,  ?,col.  1. 15. 
and  the  express  image  of  his  substance  z.      Who  ^^^  '   '^' 
was  clothed  with  a  vesture  dipt  in  blood;  ^nd  his 
name  is  called  the  Word  of  God  a.  In  him  dwells  «Jev,  19. 

lo. 

all  the  fulness  of  the  Godhead  bodily  b.  Jind  in  him  bCol  2. 9. 
are  all  the  treasures  of  wisdom  and  knowledge  c.  crerse  S.. 


3jDB  (JONFESSION   OP    PAlTHr 

ARTICLE   V. 

Concerning  his  appearance  in  the  flesh, 

«Srohnl.l4.      The  Word  was  made  flesh  d.     For  he  took  nol 
on  him  the  nature  of  angels;  but  he  took  on  him 
the  seed  of  Abraham^  being  in  all  things  made 
eHeb.  2.      like  unto  his  brethren  c.     Touched  with  a  feeling 
16,  17.        Qp  Qjjj.  infirmities;  and  in  all  things  tempted,  like 
/Heb.4.15.  as  we  are,  yet  without  sin  /.      He  died  for  out 
sins,  according  to  the  scriptures;  and  he  was  bu- 
ried, and  he  rose  again  the  third  day,  according 
^^1  Cor.  15.  to  the  scriptures  g. 


ARTICLE  VI. 

Concerning  the  end  and  use  of  that  appearance, 

God  sent  his  own  Son  in  the  likeness  of  sinful 
^Rom.  8. 3.  flesh,  and  for  sin  condemned  sm  in  the  flesli  h. 
For  this  purpose  the  Son  of  God  was  manifested, 
elJohn3.8  that  he  might  destroy  the  works  of  the  devil  t, 
^'verse  5  ^^^^»  '^nanifested  to  take  away  our  sins  k.  For 
he  gave  himself  for  us,  an  offering  and  a  sacrifice 
fEph  5  2.  *"  ^"*^  ^^^  ^  sweet  smelling  savour  I.  Having 
mHeb.  9.  obtained  eternal  redemption  for  us  m.  Jlnd 
12.  through  the  etertjal  Spirit  offered  up  himself  with- 

out spot  unto  God,  to  purge  our  conscien^ces  from 
reverse  14.   ^®^*'  works,   to  serve  the  living  God  n.      He  was 
the  Lamb  that  was   slain  from  the  foundation  of 
^  „    tlie  world  o.     Of  ivhom  the  fathers  did  all  drink: 

oKev.  5.  o,  ' 

i2i&13.  8.  for  they  drank  of  that  spiritual  Rock  that  follow- 


Confession  of  faith,  109 

ed  them,  and  that  Rock  was  Christ;?.     Christ  al-/>l  Cor.  10. 
so  suffered  for  us,  leaving  us  an  example,  that  we 
Iphould  follow  his  steps  q.      For  ive  are  to  bear  gl  Peter  2, 
about  in  the  body,  the  dying  of  the  Lord  Jesus, 
that  the  life  also  of  Jesus  might  be  made  manifest 
in  our  body,  being  alway  delivered  unto  death  for 
Jesus's  sake,  that  the  life  also  of  Jeius  may  be 
made  manifest  in  our  flesh  r.     That  we  may  know  '2  Cor.  4.. 
him,  and  the  power  of  his  resurrection,  and  the 
fellowship  of  his  sufferings,  being  made  conform- 
able to  his  death  s.  APliil.3.10. 


ARTICLE  VII. 

Concerning  the  inward  manifestation  of  Christ, 

God  dwelleth  with  the  contrite  and  humble  in 
spirit  t.     For  he  hath  said,  He  will  dwell  in  them  ^Isa.  57.15. 
and  walk  in  them  u.     Md  Christ  standeth  at  the  ^2  Cor.  6v 
door,  and  knocketh;   if  any  man  hear  his  voice,  ^^* 
and  open  the  door,  he  will  come  in  to  him,  and 
sup  with  him.  and  he  with  him  x,     And  therefore  a:Rev.3. 20. 
ouo'ht  we  to  examine  our  selves,  and  prove  our 
own  selves,  knowing  how  that  Christ  is  in  us  ex- 
cept we  be  reprobates  y.     For  this  is  the  riches  2/2  Cor.  i:>. 
of  the  glory  of  the  mystery,    which  God  would 
make  known  among  for  rather  IjYJ  the  Gentiles^ 
Christ  within,  the  hope  of  glory  z.  rCol.  1. 27, 


110  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH.  i| 

I'  ARTICLE  Viri.  ]! 

Concerning  the  JVew  Birth, 

Except  a  man  be  born  again,  he  cannot  see  the 
oJohn  3.  3,  kingdom  of  God  a.     Therefore  ought  ice  to  put 
off  the  old  man  with  his  deeds,  and  put  on  the 
new  man,  which  is  renewed  in  knowledge  after 
the  image  of  him  that  created  him,  and  which  af- 
ter God  is  created  in  righteousness  and  true  holi- 
iEph  4.      ness  b.    For  henceforth  know  we  no  man  after 
Coirs!  10.   *'^^  flesh;  yea,  though  we  have  known  Christ  after 
the  flesh,  yet  now  henceforth  know  we  him  no 
c2  Cor.  5.    more  c.     For  if  any  man  be  in  Christ,  he  is  a  new 
creature,  old  things  are  passed  away;  behold,  all 
(Iverse  17.  tilings  are  become  new  d.     For  such  have  put  on 
e^om.   o.    ^j^g  ■j^^j.j  Jesus  Christ  e.      And  are  renewed  in 
/Eph.4.23.  the  spirit  of  their  minds/.     For  as  many  as  have, 
^■Gal.S.  27.  been  baptized  into  Christ,  have  put  on  Christ  g*. 
Being  born  again,  not  of  corruptible  seed,  but  of 
incorruptible,  by  the  word  of  God,  which  livetli 
/il  Peter  1.  and  abideth  forever^,      ^nd  glory  in  nothing, 
save  in  the  cross  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by 
whom  the  world  is  crucified  unto  them,  and  theyj 
e'Gal.  6.14  unto  the  world  i.      For  in  Christ  Jesus,  neither 
circumcision  availeth  any  thing,  nor  unciixumci- 
kvQvsQ,  15,  sion,  but  a  new  creature  k. 


CONFESSION    OF    FAITH*  IH 

ARTICLE  IX.  , 

Concerning  the  unity  of  the  saints  with  Christ, 

^   He  that  sanctifieth,  and  they  who  are  sanctified, 
are  all  of  one  I.     For  by  the  exceeding  great  and  ^Heb.2. 11. 
precious  pronaises  tliat  are  given  them,  they  are 
made  partakers  of  the  divine  nature  m.     Because  „i2'PQieTl. 
for  this  end  prayed  Christ,  they  all  might  be  one,  '^'* 
as  the  Father  is  in  him,  and  he  in  the  Father,  that 
they  also  might  be  one  in  them;  and  the  glory 
which  he  had  gotten  from  the  Father,    he  gave 
them,  that  they  might  be  one,  even  as  the  Father 
and  he  is  one;  Christ  in  the  saints,  and  the  Father 
in  Christ,  that  they  might  be  made  perfect  in  one  n.  21  22  25. 

^*      '  ARTiCLK  X. 

Concerning  the  universal  love  and  grace  of  God 
to  all. 

God  so  loved  the  world,  that  he  gave  his  only 
begotten  Son,   that  whosoever  believeth  in  him 
should  not  perish,  but  have  everlasting  life  0,  And  oJohnS.  16. 
in  this  was  manifested  the  love  of  God  towards 
us,  because  that  God  sent  his  only  begotten  Son, 
that  we  might  live  through  him  p.     So  that  if  any  pUohni.  9. 
man  sin,  we  have  an  advocate  with  the  Father, 
Jesus  Christ  the  righteous;  and  he  is  the  propitia- 
tion for  our  sins;  and  not  for  ours  only,  but  also 
for  the   sins   of  the  whole  world  q.     For  by  the  f  2°  "    ' 
grace  of  God  he  hath  tasted  death  for  every  man  r.  rHeb.  2*9. 


11^        ■  CONFESSION  Of  faith.  *         j 

Jlncl  gave  himself  a  ransom  for  all,  to  be  testified 
slTim.2.  6.  jjj  jyg  ^jjjjg  g^  Willing  all  men  to  be  saved,  and 
tlTim.  2. 4.  to  come  to  the  knowledge  of  tlie  truth  ^     Not 

willing  that  any  should  perish,  but  that  all  should 
«2Pet.  3.9.  come  to  repentance  m.     For  God  sent  not  his  Sor 

into  the  world  to  condemn  the  world,  but  that  the 

x3o\m  3.     world  through  him  mishtbe  saved  x.    dnd  Christ 
17  o  o 

came  a  light  into  the  world,  that  whosoever  be» 

2/Jolinl2.  lieveih  in  him,  should  not  abide  in  darkness  ?/# 
Therefore,  as  by  the  offence  of  one,  judgment 
came  upon  all  men  to  condemnation;  even  so  by 
the  righteousness  of  one,  the  free  gift  came  upon 

iRom.5.18.  all  men  to  justification  of  life  z. 


ARTICLE  XI. 

Concerning  the  light  that  enlighteneth  every  ma/i. 

The  gospel  was  preached  to  every  creature  un- 

aCol.  1. 23.  dei-  heaven  a.     Which  gospel  is  the  power  of  God 

Z'Rom-l.lG,  unto  salvation,  to  them  that  believe  b.    Jind  if  it 

be  hid,  it  is  hid  to  them  which  are  lost,  in  whom 

the  God  of  this  world  hath  blinded  the  minds  of 

them  which  believe  not,  lest  the  light  of  the  glo- 

c2  Cor.  4.    I'lous  gospel  of  Christ  should  shine  into  them  c, 

^>^'  And  this  is  the  condemnation,  that  light  is  come 

into  the  world,  and  men  love  darkness  rather  than 

^?John3. 19.  light,  because  their  deeds  are  evil  d.     •And  this 

was  the  true  light,  which  lightneth  every  man  that 

.rfohnl.9.  cometh  into  the  world  e.   '  By  ichich  all   things 

that  are  reprovable,  are  made  manifestj  for  what> 


I 

1/  CONFESSION    OF    FAlTtf.  113 

soever  maketh  manifest  is  light/.      Every  one/Eph. 5. 

that  doth  evil,  hateth  the  light,  neither  cometh  to 

jlhe  light,  lest  his  deeds  should  be  reproved:  but 

ie  that  doeth  truth,  cometh  to  the  light,  that  his 

feeds    may  be  made    manifest,    that    they  are 

wrouo-ht  in  God  ff.     ^nd  they  that  ^\2^k  in  the^Johna, 

.  20.  21 

light,  as  Christ  is  in  the  light,  have  fellowship  one  "  '  "  ' 

with  another,  and  the  blood  of  Jesus  Christ  his 

Son,  cleanseth  them  from  all   sin /z.     Therefore  hlJohn  1, 

ought  we  to  believe  in  the  light,  while  we  have  the    '  . 

light,  that  we  may  be  the  children  of  the  light  i.  iJohn  12. 

Therefore  to-day,  if  we  will  hear  his  voice,  let  us  "^  ' 

not  harden  our  hearts  k.     For  Christ  wept  over  ^Heb.  4.  r. 

Jerusalem,  saying,  If  thou  hadst   known,    even 

thou,   at  least  in  this  thy  day,   the  things  whicli 

belong  unto  thy  peace!  but  now  they  are  hid  from 

thine  eyes  I.    •'ind  he  would  often  have  gathered  ^Luke  19. 

her  children,  as  a  hen  gathereth  her  chickens;  but  ^^'  ^^• 

they  would  not  m.     For  the  stiff-necked  and  un-  ^nMat.  23. 

circumcised  in  heart  and  ears,  do  always  resist  "^^^ 

the  Holy  Ghost  «.     And  are  of  those  that  rebel  7^Acts7.  Si, 

against  the  light  o.     Therefore   God'*s  Spirit  will  ^j  ,  ^4  1" 

not  always  strive  with  man  ^-     For  the  wrath  of  pQ^j^  5  5 

God  is  revealed  from  heaven  ag-ainst  all  ungodli- 

ness  and   unrighteousness  of  men,   who  hold  the 

truth  in  unrighteousness  q,     iiecause  what  is  to  be  jRomansl, 

known  of  God  is  manifest  in  them;  for  God  hath  ^^ 

shewed  it  unto  them  r.     •'ind  a  manifestation  ofrversel9. 

the  Spirit  is  given  to  every  man  to  profit  withal  s.  ^iq^,,  ^ry 

J'er  the  grace  of  God  that  brings  salvation,  hatli^- 

K2 


114  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH.  i 

appeared  to  all  men,  teaching  us,  that  denying  un-  Jl 
godliness  and  worldly  lusts,  we  should  live  sober-  i 

fTitus2.      ly,  righteously  and  godly  in  this  present  world  f.' 

'     '         ^9nd  this  word  of  his  grace,  is  able  to  build  up, 

an<l  give  an  inheritance  among  all  those  that  are 

7/Acts  20.  sanctified  u.  For  the  word  of  God  is  quick  and 
powerful,  and  sharper  than  any  two-edged  sword, 
piercing  even  to  the  dividing  asunder  of  the  soul 
and  spirit,  and  of  the  joints  and  marrow,  and  is  a 
discerner    of  the    thoughts    and    intents  of  the 

^Ueb.4.12.  heart  £C,  This  is  that  more  sure  word  of  prophe- 
cy, whereunto  we  do  well  that  we  take  heed,  as 
unto  a  light  that  shineth  in  a  dark  place,  until  the 

f'^Peterl.  day  dawn  and  the  day-star  arise  in  the  heart  y. 
^nd  this  is  the  word  of  faith  which  the  apostles 
preached,  which  is  nigh,  in  the  mouth,  and  in  the 

cllom.  10.  heart  x.  For  God,  who  commanded  the  light  to 
shine  out  of  darkness,  hath  shined  in  our  hearts, 
to  give  the  light  of  the  knowledge  of  the  glory  of 

aiCovA.6.  G^"d  in  the  face  of  Jesus  Christ  a.  But  we  have 
this. treasure  in  earthen  vessels,  that  the  excellen-  i 

T'V.e^se  f.  cy  of  the  power  may  be  of  God,  and  not  of  us  fcW 
for  the  kingdom  of  God  cometh  not  by  observa-| 
tion,  but  is  within  us.  ) 


ARTICLE  Xir. 

Concerning  faith  and  justijicaiiaji. 

Faith  is  the  substance  of  things  hoped  for,  and 

.ilcb.U.  1.  the  evidence  of  things  not  seen  c.  Wi-tliottt  which 


^ 


'I  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH.  115 

it  ia  impossible  to  please  God  d.      Therefore  we  rfHeb.ll.e^ 

I  are  justified  by  faith,  which  woiketh  by  love  e.  eGal.  5.  6. 

J^or  faith  without  works  being  dead,  is  by  works 

made  perfect  f.     By  the  deeds  of  the  law  there /James  2, 

22  26 
'  shall  no  flesh  be  justified  g.    JV*or  yet  by  the  works  ^Romuns 

of  righteousness  which  we  have  done;  but  accord-  ^'  ^0. 

ing  to  his  mercy  ice  are  saved,  by  the  washing  of 

regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost  h.  /iTltusS.  5,^ 

For  ive  are  both  washed,  sanctified  and  justified 

in  the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  by  the  Spirit 

of  our  God  i.  ^ICor.  §r. 

ARTICLE  XIIL 

Concerning  good  works, 

i.    If  we  live  after  the  flesh,  we  shall  die;  but  if 
tee,  through  the  Spirit,  do  mortify  the  deeds  of 
the  body,  we  shall  live  k.    For  they  which  believe  ^Romans 
yd  God  must  be  careful  to  maintain  good  works  L  /Titus 3. 8. 
/For  God  will  render  to  every  man  according  to 
his  deeds  m.      According  to  his  righteous  judg-  mRom.2.  ^. 
xnent  to  them,  who  by  patient  continuance  in  well 
Aioing,  seek  for  glory,  honor,  and  immortality- 
eternal  life:  For  such  are  counted  worthy  of  the 
kingdom  of  God  ?z.      And    cast  not  away  their  ^2  Thes.  li 
confidence,  which  hath  great  recompense  of  re-  ^' 
ward  0.     Blessed  then  are  tiiey  that  do  his  com-  oHeb.  10. 
mandments,  that  they  may  have  right  to  the  tree  ^^' 

of  life,  and  may  enter  in  through  the  gates  into 

-       .^  ^  °  °  pUeY.22: 

the  city  p.  14. 


116  tJONFESSION    OF    FAITH. 

ARTICLE  XIV. 

Concerning  perfection* 

Sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over  such  as  are 
gHome.  14.  not  under  the  law,  but  under  grace  q.     For  there 
is  no  condemnation  to  those  that  arc  in  Christ  Je- 
sus, who  walk  not  after  the  flesh,  but  after  the 
Spirit;  for  the  law  of  the  Spirit  of  life  maketk 
rchapterS  free  from  the  law  of  sin  and  death  r.     For  such 
'  are  become  dead  unto  sin,  and  alive  unto  right- 

eousness; and  being  made  free  from  sin,  are  be- 
chapter  6.  come  servants  of  righteousness  s.  Therefore 
^-  ^^'  ought  we  to  be  perfect,  as  our  heavenly  Father  is 

Alat.  5. 48.  perfect  t.  For  the  yoke  of  Christ  is  easy,  and  his 
wMat.ll.  burthen  is  light  M.  And  his  commandments  are 
30-  not  grievous  oc.    Jind  whosoever  will  enter  into 

3,  life  must  keep  the  commandments  y.     Hereby  do 

1^  ^^'      '    we  know  that  we  know  God,  if  we  keep  his  com- 

slJohnS.  mandments  ;e.  He  that  saith,  I  know  him,  and 
3. 

keepeth  not  his  commandments,  is  a  liar,  and  the 

averse  4.  truth  is  not  in  him  a.  Whosoever  abideth  in  him, 
sinneth   not;    whosoever  sinneth,   hath  not  seen 

ichap  3. 6.  Iiim,  neither  known  him  6.     Let  no  man  deceive 

us;  he  that  doth  righteousness  is  righteous,  even 

as  he  is  righteous;  he  that  committeth  sin  is  of  the 

devil;  whosoever  is  born  of  God  doth  not  commit 

sin;  for  his  seed  remaineth  in  him,  and  he  cannot 

clJohn  3.  sin,  because  he  is  born  of  God  c.  For  not  every 
7  8  9.  , 

one  that  sailh   Lord,   Lord,  shall   enter  into  the 

kingdom  of  heaven;  but  he  that  doth  the  will  of 


I  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH.  117 

fAe  Father,  which  is  in  heaven  d.    Circumcision  is  c?Mat.  7. 
nothing,  and  uncircumcisron  is  nothing,  but  the 
Veeping  the  cornmandments  of  God  e.  ^l  Cor.  7» 

W  ^^' 

ARTICLE  XV. 

Concerning  perseverance^  and  falling  from  grace* 

We  ought  to  give  diligence  to  make  our  calling 

and  election  sure,  which  things  if  we  do,  we  shall 

never  fall  /.     For  even  Paul  kept  under  his  bod  j,/2  Peter  1. 

and  brought  it  into  subjection,  lest  by  any  means, 

when  he  preached  to  others,  he  himself  became  a 

cast-away  g".     Let  us  therefore  take  heed,  lest^lCor.  9. 

there  be  In  any  of  us  an  evil  heart  of  unbelief,  in  ^^' 

departing  from  the  living  God  h.     Likewise  let  AHeb.3. 12. 

us  labor  to  enter  into  that  rest,  lest  any  man  fall 

after  the  same  example  of  unbelief  i.      For  it  is  jichapter  4. 

impossible  for  those  who  are  once  enlightened,  and 

have  tasted  of  the  heavenly  gift,  and  were  made 

partakers  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  have  tasted  of 

the  good  word  of  God,  and  the  powers  of  the 

world  to  come,  if  they  shall  fall  away,  to  renew 

them  again  unto  repentance  k.     For  he  that  abi-  Xx;hapter6: 

deth  not  in  Christ  is  cast  forth,  and  is  withered  I.  f'  f'  ^'    - 

'  /John  15. 6. 

Tetsuch  as  overcometh,  he  will  make  as  pillars  in 

the  temple  of  his  God,  and  they  shall  go  no  more 

out  ?M.     *And  these  are  persuaded,    that  nothing  ^/zRev.S.  12. 

shall  be  able  to  separate  them  from  the  love  of 

God,  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus  w.  nRomanaS. 

'  38. 


118  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH. 

ARTICLE  XVr, 

Concerning  the  church  and  ministrtf. 

The  church  of  God  is  the  pillar  and  ground  o^ 


01  Tim.  3.  truth  o.      Whereof  the  dear  Son  of  God  is  th( 
*Col.  1. 18.  head  |>.    Fr(jm  which  all  the  body  by  joints  and  i 

bands,  having  nourishment  ministered,  and  knit  } 
5C0I. 2. 19.  together,  increaseth   with  the  increase  of  God  q,'\ 

Which  church  of  God  is  them  that  are  sanctified 

rlCor.  1.  2.  in  Christ  Jesus  r.     Who  when  he  ascended  up  on  , 

high,  gave  gifts  unto  men:     And  he  gave  some, 

apostles;  some,  prophets;  some,  evangelists;  some, 

pastors  and  teachers;   for  the  perfecting  of  the 

s"feph.  4.      saints,  for  the  work  of  the  ministry  s.   Who  ought 

'     '     '     to  be  blameless,  vigilant,  sober,  of  good  behaviour, 

given  to  hospitality,  apt  to  teach;   not  given  to 

wine,  no  strikers,  nor  greedy  of  filthy  lucre,  but 

i\  Tim.  3.   patient;  not  brawlers,  not  covetous  t.     Lovers  of 

'^'*'  good  men,  sober,  just,  holy,  temperate,  holding 

fast  the  faithful  word,  as  they  have  been  taught, 

that  they  may  be  able  by  sound  doctrine,  both  to 

tfritus  1.     exhort  and  to  convince  gamsayers  u.      Taking 

*  '  heed  to  themselves  and  to  the  flock,  over  which 

the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  them  overseersj  to  feed 
a?Acts  20.  the  church  of  God  oc.  Taking  the  oversight  there- 
of,  not  by  constraint,  but  willingly;  not  for  filthy 
lucre,  but  of  a  ready  mind;  neither  as  being  lords 
over  God's  heritage,  but  as  being  ensamples  to  the 

74  Peter  5.  flock  y.     Jind  such  ehiers  as  rule  well,  are  to  be 

2  3  ^ 

*  '  counted  worthy  of  double  honor,  especially  they 


i  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH.  119 

who  labor  in  the  word  and  doctrine  z.     And  to  zl  Tim.  5. 

17 
he  esteemed  very  highly  in  love  for  their  works 

fake  a.     As  every  man  hath  received  the  gift,  so  «1  Thes.  5. 
might  the  same  to  be  ministered:    If  any  man 
speak,  let  him  speak  as  the  oracles  of  God;  if  any 
man  minister,  let  him  do  it  as  of  the  ability  which 
;  God  giveth  h.      Preaching  the  gospel^  not  with  bl  Peter  4. 
\the  wisdom  of  words,  lest  the  cross  of  Christ  be     * 
made  of  none  effect  c.      Nor  yet  with  enticing  cl  Cor.  1; 
words  of  man's  wisdom,  but  in  demonstration  of     * 
^the  Spirit  and  of  power;  that   the  faith  may  not 
stand  in  the  wisdom  of  men,  but  in  the  power  of 
God  d.     Howbeit  such  speak  wisdom  among  them  <fchapter2. 
that  are  perfect;   yet  not    the    wisdom    of  this    *  * 
Vorld,  nor  of  the  princes  of  this  world,  which 
Cometh  to  nought;  but  tliey  speak  the  wisdom  of 
God  in  a  mystery,  even  the  hidden  wisdom,  which 
God  ordained  before  the  world  to  their  glory  e,  everse  6,  T. 
Which  things  they  also  speak,   not  in  the  words 
which  man's  wisdom  teacheth,  but  which  the  Ho- 
ly Ghost  teacheth/.   For  it  is  not  they  that  speak, /verse  13; 
but  the  Holy  Ghost,  or  Spirit  of  the  Father,  that 
s\>esiketh  in  them  g.      Who  \(  they  sow  spiritual  i?-Mat.  10, 
things,  ought  to  reap  carnal  things,  for  so  the 
Lord  hath  ordained,  that  they  which  preach  the 
gospel,  should  live  of  the  gospel;  for  the  scripture 
saith.    Thou  shalt  not  muzzle  the  mouth  of  the 
ox  that  treadeth  out  the  corn;  and  the  laborer  is 
worthy  of  his  reward  /i.     Yet  a  necessity  is  laid  ^i  Cor.9. 
upon  them;  yea,  v/oe  is  unto  them,  if  they  preach  ^^'  ^^»  *' 


120  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH. 

not  the  gospel;  and  their  reward  is,  that  when 
they  preach  the  gospel,  they  make  the  gospel  of 
n  Cor.  9.    Christ  without  charo;e  i.   Not  cov^Hn^  any  man's 
'     '      *  silver  or  gold,  or  apparel;  but  their  hands  minister  i 
to  their  necessities,  that  so  laboring,  they  may 
support  the  weak;   remembering  the  words  of  the  | 
Lord  Jesus,  how  he  said,  It  is  more  blessed  to 
JActs  20.    give,  than  to  receive  k.    For  they  are  not  of  th$ 
zisa:  5*6.11.  greedy  dogs,  that  can  never  have  enough  L    JS'or 
of  the  shepherds  that  look  to  their  own  way',  eve* 
wlbid.         v^  one  for  his  gain  from  his  quarter  m.   That  feed 
72Ezek.34.  themselves,  and  not  the  flock  n.     That  make  the 
^*  people  err,  biting  with  their  teeth,  and  crying 

peace,  and  preparing  war  against  all  such  as  put 
not  into  their  mouths,  teaching  for  hire,  and  divi- 
o;Micah3.    ning  for  money  o.     JVor  yet  of  these  which  teach 
things  which  they  ought  not,    for  filthy  lucre's 
pTiins  1.     sake  p.     That  run  greedily  after  the  error  of  Ba- 
laam for  reward,  loving  the  wages  of  unrighteous- 
^2  t»eter  2.  j^ess  q.     And  through  covetousness,  with  feigned 
rverse  3.     words,  making  merchandise  of  souls  r.     Men  of 

corrupt  minds,  destitute  of  the  truth,  suppo^i^ingjii 

*lTim.6.5.  that  gain  is  godliness  s.     But  they  know  that  god-/: 

fverse  6.     liness  with  contentment  is  great  gain  t.     That]  | 

having  food  and  raiment,  they  are  therewith  con*  i 

uverse  8.     tent  u. 


CONFESSION    OF    FAITH*  ISl 

ARTICLE  XVII. 

Concerning  ivorship, 

\ 

The  hour  cometh,  and  now  is,   when  the  true 

worshippers  shall   worship  the   Father  in   Spirit 
and  in  truth;  for  the  Father  seeketh  such  to  wor- 
ship him  X.   God  is  a  Spirit,  and  they  which  wor-  a7john4.23. 
ship  him,  must  worship  him  in  the  Spirit  and  in 
the  truth  y.     For  the   Lord  is  nigh  to  all  them  2/verse24. 
that  call  upon  him,  to  all  that  call  upon  him  in 
truth  z.     He  is  far  from  the  wicked;  but  he  hear-  ^Psal.  145. 
eth  the  prayers  of  the  righteous  a.      And  this  is  ^Prov.  15. 
the  confidence  that  we  have  in  him,  That  if  we  ^• 
ask  any  thing  according  to  his  will,  he  heareth 
us  b.     What  is  it  then.^     IVe  must  pray  with  the  *lJohn5. 
Spirit,  and  with  the  understanding  also  c.     Like-  ci  Cor.  14, 
fvise  the  Spirit  also  helpeth  our  infirmities;    for  ^"^• 
we  know  not  what  we  should  pray  for  as  we 
ought;   but  the  Spirit  itself  maketh  intercession 
for  us,  with  groanings  which  cannot  be  uttered: 
And  he  that  searcheth  the  heart,  knoweth  what  is 
the  mind  of  the  Spirit,  because  he  maketh  inter- 
cession for  the  saints,  according  to  the  will  of 

^0  J  o-  26, 27. 

ARTICLE  XVIIl. 

Concerning  baptism. 

As  therein  one  Lord,  one  faith,  so  there  is  one 
baptism  e.     Which  doth  also  now  save  us,  not  the  eEph.4.5. 
puttino-  away  of  the  filth  of  the  flesh,  but  the  an- 

I. 


12£  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH. 

swer  of  a  good  conscience  towards  God,  by  the 

f}^^^^^  ^-  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ  f.     For  John  indeed 
21.  '' 

baptized  with  water,  but  Christ  with  the  Holy 

^-Mat.  3.      Ghost  and  with  fire  g.     Therefore  as  many  as  are 

baptized  into  Jesus  Christ,  are  baptized  into  his 

death,  and  are  buried   with  him  by  baptism  into 

death,  that  like  as  Christ  was  raised  up  from  the 

dead  by  the  glory  of  the  Father,  even  so  they  also 

ARom.  6.     should  walk  in  newness  of  life  h.     Having  put  on 

'iGa.i3.27.  Christ!. 


ARTICLE  XIX. 

Concerning  eating  of  bread  and  wine,  washing 

of  one  another^sfeet,  abstaining  from  things 

strangled,  and  from  blood,  and  anointing 

of  the  sick  with  oil. 

The  Lord  Jesus  the  same  night  in  which  he  was 
betrayed,  took  bread;  and  when  he  had  given 
thanks,  he  brake  it,  and  said,  Take,  eat,  this  is 
my  body  which  is  broken  for  you;  this  do  in  re- 
membrance of  me:  After  the  same  manner  also 
he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had  supped,  saying, 
This  cup  is  the  new  testament  in  my  blood;  this 
do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of 
me;  for  as  oft  as  ye  do  eat  tliis  bread,  and  drink 
this  cup,  ye  do  shewforth  the  Lord's  death  till  he 
HCor.  11.  come  Jc.  Jesus  knowing  that  the  Father  had  giv- 
en all  things  into  his  hands,  and  that  he  was  come 
fr«m  God,  and  went  to  God,  he  ariseth  from  sup- 


CONFESSION    OF    FAITH.  12J 

per,  and  laid  aside  his  garments,  and  took  a  tow- 
el, and  girded  himself:  after  that,  he  poureth  wa- 
ter into  a  bason,  and  began  to  wash  the  disciples 
feet,  and  to  wipe  them  with  the  towel  wherewitli 
he  was  girded:  So  after  he  had  washed  their  (^eet, 
and  had  taken  his  garments,  and  was  sat  down 
again,  he  said  unto  them,  Know  ye  what  I  have 
done  unto  jou?  Ye  call  me  Master  and  Lord, 
and  ye  say  well;  for  so  I  am;  if  then  I,  your  Lord 
and  Master,  have  washed  your  feet,  ye  also  ought 
to  wash  one  another's  feet;  for  1  have  given  you 
an  example,  that  ye  shall  do  as  I  have  done  unto 
you  /.  For  it  seemed  good  to  the  Holy  Ghost  and  zjohn  13. 
to  us,  to  lay  upon  you  no  greater  burthen  than  ^l^l^'i^ 
these  necessary  things,  That  ye  abstain  from 
meats  offered  to  idols,  from  blood,  and  from  things 
strangled,  and  from  fornication;  from  which  if  ye 
keep  yourselves  ye  do  well  ??i.  Is  any  man  sick  wiActs  15. 
among  you,  let  him  call  for  the  elders  of  the     '     ' 

church,  and  let  them  pray  over  him,  anointing  him 

•  .1      .,  n James  5. 

with  oil  K.  -^4 


ARTICLE   XX. 

Concerning  the  liberty  of  such  Christians  as  are 

come  to  know  the  substance,  as  to  the  using 

or  not  using  of  these  rites,  and  of  the 

observation  of  days. 

The  kingdom  of  God  is   not  meat  and  drink, 
but  righteousness,  and  peace,  and  joy  in  the  Holy 


124  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH. 

«/Rom.  14.    Ghost  0.    Let  no  man  therefore  iudo-e  us  in  meat 
17.  *'     *        . 

or  drink,  or  in  respect  of  an  holj  day,  or  of  the 

/'Col.  2. 16.  new  moon,  or  of  the  sabbath  days  p.     For  if  we 

be  dead   with  Christ  from  the  rudiments  of  tlie 

world,  why,  as  though  living  in  the  world,  are  we  ^ 

subject  to  ordinances?     Let  usnot  touch,  or  taste, 


or  handle,  which  all  are  to  perish  with  the  usin 


averse  20     after  the  commandments  and  doctrines  of  men  a, 
to  22. 

For  now,  after  we  have  known  God,  or  rather  are 

known  of  him,  why  should  we  turn  again  unto  the 

weak  and  beggarly  elements,  or  desire  again  to  be  v 

in  bondage  to  observe  days  and  months,  and  times] 

and  years,  lest  labor  have  been  bestowed  on  us  in 

rGal.  4.       vain  r.    If  one  man  esteem  a  day  above  another,  ^ 

another  esteems  everyday  alike;  let  every  man  | 

be  fully  persuaded  in  his  own  mind;  He  that  re- : 

gardeth  a  day,   regardeth  it  unto  the  Lord:    and 

he  that  regardeth  not  the  day  to  the  Lord,  he 

fiRom.  14.    doth  not  regard  it  s. 

5,  6.  ° 


ARTICLE  XXL 

Concerning  swearing,  fighting,  and  persecution. 

It  hath  been  said  by  them  of  old.  Thou  shalt 
not  forswear  thyself,  but  shalt  perform  unto  the 
Lord  thine  oaths:  but  Christ  says  unto  us,  Swear 
not  at  all,  neither  by  heaven,  for  it  is  God's  throne; 
nor  by  the  earth,  for  it  is  his  footstool;  neither  by 
Jerusalem,  for  it  is  the  city  of  the  great  King; 
neither  shalt  thou  swear  by  thy  head,  because  thou 


cotJfession  of  faith.  125 

[canst  not  make  one  hair  white  or  black;  but  let 
your  communication  be  yea,  yea;  nay,  nay;  for 
whatsoever  is  more  than  these,  cometh  of  evil  t.  ^^at.  5. 
^nd  James  charged  us,  Above  all  things  not  to 
swear;  neither  by  heaven,  neither  by  the  earth, 
neither  by  any  other  oath;  but  let  your  yea  be 
yea,  and  your  nay,  nay,  lest  ye  fall  into  condemna- 
tion u.     Though  we  walk  in  the  flesh,  we  are  not  ^/James  5. 

12. 
to   war  after  the   flesh;    for  the  weapons  of  our 

warfare  are  not  to  be  carnal,  but  mighty  througli 
God  to  the  pulling  down  of  strong  holds,  casting 
down  imaginations,  and  every  high  thing  that  ex- 
alts itself  against  the  knowledge  of  God,   and 
bringing  into  captivity  every  thought  to  the  obe- 
dience of  Christ  X.     For  wars  and  fightings  come  "2  Cnr.  10^ 
out    of    the   lusts,   that    war    in    the  niembers  ?/.  ^j^^^gg^  2^ 
Therefore  Christ  commands,   not  to  resist  evil; 
but  whosoever  will  smite  thee  on  the  right  cheek, 
to  turn  the  other  also  z.     Because  Christians  are  iMat.o.39. 
lambs  among  wolves  a.     Therefore  are  they  hated  aLukelO.S, 

of  all  men  for  ChrisVs  sake  h.     And  all  that  will  6* Mat.  10. 

22. 
live  godly  in   Christ  Jesus,   must  suffer  persecu-  ""' 

tion  c.     Such  are  blessed,  for  theirs  is  the  kinj:;-  c2Tim.  5, 

12. 
dom  of  heaven  d.  For  though  they  liave  lost  their  v/ Mat.  5. 

lives,  yet  shall  they  save  them  e.     Jind  because  ^^'  -.^  2- 

they  have  confessed  Christ  before  men,  he  will 

also  confess  them  before  the  angels  of  God/.  f'Ve fL\ikel2.S. 

ought  not  then  to  fear  them  which  kill  the  body, 

but  are  not  able  to  kill  the  soul;  but  rather  fear  him 

'■>-Mat  10 
^liich  is  able  to  destroy  both  soul  and  body  ia  hell  g.  28 

L2 


^26  CONFESSION    OF    FAITH. 

ARTICLE  XXII. 
Concerning  magistracy,  x 

Let  every  soul  be  subject  to  tlie  higher  powers; 
for  there  is  no  power  but  of  GocJ;  the  powers  that 
be,  are  ordained  of  God.      Whosoever  therefore 
resists  the  power,  resists  the  ordinance  of  God; 
and  they  that  resist,   shall  receive  to  themselves 
damnation:    For  rulers  are  not  a  terror  to  good 
works,  but  to  the  evil.     Wilt  thou  then  not   be 
afraid  of  the  power?     Do  that  which  is  good,  and 
thou  shalt  have  praise  of  the  same;  for  lie  is  the 
minister  of  God  to  thee  for  good:  but  if  thou   da 
that  which  is  evil,  be  afraid;    for  he  beareth  not 
the  sword  in  vain:  For  he  is  the  minister  of  God, I 
a  revenger  to  execute  wrath  upon  him   that  dothj 
evil.     Wherefore  we  must  needs  be  subject,   not 
only  for  wrath,  but  also  for  conscience  sake;  for,  ' 
for   this  £ause  pay  we  also  tribute;    for  they  are  j 
God's  ministers,  attending  continually  upon  this  j 
very  thing:  Render,  therefore,  to  all  their  dues; 
tribute,  to  whom  tribute  is  due;  custom,  to  whom 
custom;  fear,  to  whom  fear;  honor,  to  whom  hon°  j 
vRom.  13.    or  h.     Therefore,  are  we  to  submit  ourselves  to  ev- 
ery ordinance  of  man  for  the  Lord's  sake;  wheth- 
er it  be  to  the  king,  as  supreme;  or  unto  gover- 
nors, as  unto  them  that  are  sent  by  him  for  the  ^ 
punishment  of  evil-doers,  and   for  the  praise  of  ' 
them  that  do  well    For  so  is  the  will  of  God,  that 
v»ith  well  doing,  ice  may  put  to  silence  the  igno^ ' 


1  lor. 


/ 


COXFESSIOJJ    OF    FAITH.  i'2T 


ance  of  foolish  men  i.  Yet  it  is  right  in  the  sight  /I  Peter  a 
of  God,  to  hearken  unto  him  more  than  unto 
them  k.     And  though  they  straitly  command  us  ^^Acts4. 19. 
not  to  teach  in  ChrisVs  name,  ive  ought  to  obey  /chapter5. 
God  rather  than  men  I.  28, 29. 


ARTICLE  XXIII. 

Concerning  the  resurrection. 

There  shall  be  a  resurrection  of  the  dead,  both 
of  the  just  and  unjust  m.  They  that  have  done  wchap.24, 
good,  unto  the  resurrection  of  life;  and  thej  that 
have  done  evil,  unto  the  resurrection  of  damna- 
tion n.  Flesh  and  blood  cannot  inherit  the  king-  ?john5.29. 
domofBod;  neither  doth  corruption  inherit  in- 
corruption  o.     JVor  is  that  body  sown  that  shall  ol  Cor.  15. 

TO 

be;  but  God  giveth  it  a  body  as  it  hath   pleased      * 

him,  and  to  every  seed  his  own  body:  It  is  sown 

in  corruption,  it  is   raised  in  incorruption;    it  is 

sown  in  weakness,  it  is  raised  in  power:  it  is  sown  ^ICov.  15? 

I  •  •       111  37, 38. 

a  natural  bod  v,  it  is  raised  a  spiritual  body  p,         42  to  44. 


1^8  A  SHORT    EXPOSTULATION. 

CHAP.   XVIL 

*4  short  expostulation^  icith  an  appeal  to  all  othev]^ 
professors. 

Come,  let  us  reason  with  you,  all  ye  professors 
of  Christianity  of  what  sort  or  kind  soever;  and 
bring  forth  your  Catechisms  and  Confessions  of 
Faith,  to  that  which  by  most  of  yourselves  is  ac 
counted  the  touch-stone  or  rule:  And  suffer  your- 
selves no  more  to  be  blinded,  and  to  err  through 
your  ignorance  of  the  scriptures,  and  of  the  pow- 
er of  God;  but  freely  acknowledge  and  confess  to 
that  glorious  gospel  and  light,  whicli  the  scriptures 
so  clearly  witness  to,  and  your  experience  must 
needs  answer;  as  also  to  these  other  doctrines, 
•which  consequently  depend  upon  the  belief  of 
that  noble  and  truly  catholic  principle,  wherein 
the  love  of  God  is  so  mercifully  exhibited  to  all 
men,  and  his  justice  and  mercy  do  like  twins  so 
harmoniously  concord;  his  mercy  in  the  oft  ten- 
dring  of  his  love,  through  the  strivings  and  wrest- 
lings of  his  light,  during  the  day  of  every  man's 
visitation;  and  his  justice,  both  in  the  destroying 
and  cutting  away  of  the  wicked  nature  and  spirit, 
in  those  that  suffer  themselves  to  be  redeemed 
through  his  judgments;  and  in  the  utter  overthrow 
of  such,  who  rebelled  against  the  lijiht,  and  doing 
despite  to  the  Spirit  of  grace,  hate  to  be  reform- 
ed. Now  not  only  this  fundamental  principle  is 
dearly  held  forth  in  this  treatise,  but  all  those 


i 


A    SHORT    EXPOSTtLATIO^'.  129 


hat  depend  upon  it,  as  the  real  and  inward  jus- 
tification of  the  saints,  through  the  power  and  life 
of  Jesus  revealed  in  them,  their  full  and  perfect 
redemption  from  the  body  of  death  and  sin,  as 
tbey  grow  up  by  the  workings  and  prevalency  of 
his  grace;  and  yet  lest  security  should  enter,  there 
is  great  need  of  watchfulness,  in  that  they  may 
even  depart  after  they  have  really  witnessed  a 
good  condition,  and  make  shipwreck  of  the  faith, 
and  of  a  good  conscience,  with  all  the  parts  of 
the  doctrine  of  Christ,  as  they  lie  linked  together 
like  a  golden  chain,  which  doth  very  much  evi- 
dence the  certainty  and  virtue  of  truth  above  all 
heresies,  error  and  deceit,  however  so  cunningly- 
gilded  with  the  specious  pretences  thereof;  for 
truth  is  entire  in  all  its  parts,  and  consonant  to 
itself,  without  the  least  jar,  having  a  wonderful 
coherence  and  a  notable  harmony,  answering  to- 
gether like  the  strings  of  a  well  tuned  instru- 
ment; whereas  the  principles  of  all  other  profes- 
sors, though  in  some  things  most  of  them  come 
near,  and  divers  acknowledge  that  which  is  truth; 
yet  in  most  things  they  stray  from  it,  so  that  their 
principles  greatly  contradict  and  jar  one  against 
another;  and  though  they  may  allege  scripture  for 
some  of  their  principles,  yet  they  are  put  strange- 
ly to  wrest  it,  and  to  deny  it  for  others.  My  aj)- 
peal  then  to,  and  expostulation  with,  all  sorts  of 
professors,  is  not  to  prove  some  one  or  two  points 
by  the  scriptures,  (for  there  be  some  general  no- 


130  A    SHORT    EXPOSTULATION. 

tions  of  truth,  which  most,  if  not  all,  agree  tOj)l 
but  the   whole  body  of  our  principles,    as  they 
stand  in  relation  to  each  other,   which  none  of 
them  all  is  able  to  do;  for,  among  the  many  pro- 
fessors, their  Catechisms  and  Confessions  of  Faith^ 
1  find  none  (save  the  dispensation  of  truth,  now 
again  revealed)  but  such  as  in  most  of  their  sub- 
stantial principles  differ   greatly,   and  in  many 
contradict  grossly  the  plain  text  and  tenor  of  the 
scripture.     I  confess  there  be  certain  men  in  this 
age,  who  with  some  plausible  appearance  of  real-^ 
ity,  undertake  this  task:     These  are  they  which| 
join  with,  and  own  not  only  any  imbodied  people; 
but  while  they  pretend  a  general  love  to  all,  yet 
find  fault  with  some  part  of  every  sort;  while  ia' 
the  mean  time  they  scarce  can  give  any  account 
of  their  own  religion,  and  most  of  them  prove  at] 
bottoin  to  have  none  at  all.      These  men,  I  say,: 
may  perhaps  acknowledge  some  general  truths,! 
and  also  hold  to  the  letter  of  the  scripture  in  some 
other  things,  so  as  thereby  to  take  occasion  large- 
ly to  judge  others,  while  themselves  offer  not  to 
bring  these  good  things  to  practice,  they  blame 
others  for  the  want  or  neglect  of:  But  such  an  en- 
terprise from  these  men,  will  not  (when  weighed)! 
prove  a  fulfilling  of  this  matter;  seeing  it  is  not] 
enough  to  acknowledge  many  truths,  but  also  to 
deny  and  witness  against  all  error;  and  likewise, 
not  to  fall   short  of  any  truth  which  ought  to  be 
^gknowledged;    Wherepis  these  sort  of  men  for 


A   SHORT    EXPOSTULATION.  131 

le  most  part,  cannot  give  account  of  their  faith 
n  many  things  needful  to  be  believed;  and  what- 
ever things  they  may  acknowledge  to  be  true,  they 
err  most  grievously,  and  contradict  a  truth  most 
needful  to  be  minded  and  answered,  as  is  proved 
lereto,  in  that  they  stand  not  forth  to  appear  for 
iuy  of  these  discoveries  they  pretend  they  have, 
but  make  a  shift  to  hide  their  heads  in  times  of 
trial,  so  as  not  to  suffer  for,  nor  with  any:  And 
though  these  fine  pretences  above  mentioned, 
through  their  scruples  of  joining  with  any,  they 
can  cunningly  shun  the  difficulties  of  persecu- 
tions, that  attend  the  particular  sect  of  Christians. 
And  yet  by  their  general  charity  and  love  to  all, 
claim  a  share  in  any  benefits  or  advantages  that 
accrue  to  one  and  all:  Such  then  cannot  honestly 
lay  claim  to  justify  their  principles  and  practices 
from  the  scriptures.  But  I  leave  these  stragglers 
in  religion,  and  come  again  to  the  divers  sects. 

To  begin  with  those  that  are  most  numerous:  I 
think  I  need  not  say  much  to  the  Papists  m  this 
case;  for  they  do  not  so  much  as  pretend  to  prove 
all  their  dogmas  by  the  scriptures;  since  it  is  one 
bf  their  chief  doctrines,  That  tradition  may  au- 
thorise doctrines,  without  any  authority  of  scrip- 
ture: yea,  the  council  by  Constance  hath  made 
bold  to  command  things  to  be  believed,  JS'*on  oh- 
\stantescriptura,  i.  e.  though  the  scriptures  say  the 
contrary;  and  indeed  it  were  their  great  folly,  to 
ipretend  to  prove  their  doctrines  by  scripture;  see- 


132  A    SHORT    EXPOSTULATION. 

ing  the  adoration  of  saints  and  images,  purgatory 
and  prayer  for  the  dead,  the  precedency  of  the 
bishop  of  Rome,  the  matter  of  indulgences,  vvitli  | 
much  more  stuff  of  that  kind,  hath  not  the  least 
shadow  of  scripture  for  it. 

Among  Protestants,  I  know  the  Socinians  are 
great  pretenders  to  the  scriptures,  and  in  words 
as  much  exalt  them  as  any  other  people;  and  yei 
it  is  strange  to  see,  how  that  not  only  in  manj^ 
things  they  are  not  agreeable  to  them,  but  in  some 
of  their  chief  principles  quite  contrary  unto  it— 
as  in  their  denying  the  divinity  of  Christ,  which 
is  as  expressly  mentioned  as  any  thing  can  be, 
^nd  the  Word  icas  God,  John  i.  As  also  in  de- 
nying his  being  from  the  beginning,  against  the 
very  tenor  of  that  of  John  i.  and  divers  other,  as 
at  large  is  shewn  in  the  third  chapter  of  this  trea- 
tise. Divers  other  things,  as  to  them,  might  be 
mentionedi  but  this  may  suffice,  to  stop  their' 
boasting  in  this  matter. 

The  Jlrminians  are  not  more  successful  in  theirj 
denying  the  false  doctrine  of  absolute  reprobationfi 
and  in  asserting  the  universal  extent  of  ChrisVs\ 
death  for  all,  than  they  are  short  in  not  placin< 
this  salvation  in  that  spiritual   light,   wherewitl 
«ian  is  enlightened  by  Christ;    but  wrongfully  as- 
cribing a  part  of  that  to  the  natural  will  and  ca. 
pacity,  which  is  due  alone  to  the  grace  and  poweV 
of  God,  by  which  the  work  is  both  begun,  carried' 
on  and  accomplished.    And  herein  they,  as  well 


I  A    SHORT   EXPOSTULATION.  135 

as  both  the  Socinians  and  Pelagians,  though  they 
do  well  in  condemning  their  errors,  yet  they  miss 
;;in  setting  up  another,  and  not  the  truth  in  place 
thereof;  and  in  that  respect  are  justly  reproved 
by  such  scriptures  as  their  adversaries  (who  other- 
wise are  as  far  wrong  as  they)  bring  against  them, 
in  shewing  the  depravity  of  man's  will  by  nature, 
and  his  incapacity  to  do  any  good,  but  as  assisted 
by  the  grace  of  God  so  to  do. 

On  the  other  hand,  it  is  strange  to  observe,  how 
many  Protestants  (the  first  article  of  whose  Con- 
fession of  Faith,  is  to  assert  the  scripture  to  he 
the  only  rule)  should  deny  the  universal  extent  of 
Christ's  death,  contrary  to  the  express  words  of 
scripture,  which  saith.  He  tasted  death  for  every 
manj  or  the  universality  of  grace,  and  a  sufficient 
principle;  which  the  scriptures  assert  in  as  many 
positive  words,  as,  except  we  suppose  the  penmen 
intended  another  thing  than  they  spoke,  it  was 
possible  to  do,  viz.  *^  manifestation  of  the  Spirit 
is  given  to  everi/  man  to  profit  withal:  The  grace 
of  God,  that  hr in geih  salvation,  hath  appeared  un- 
to all  men;  and  many  more  before  mentioned. — . 
The  like  may  be  said  of  their  denying  the  perfec- 
tion of  the  saints,  and  asserting  the  impossibility 
of  any  falling  away  from  real  beginnings  of  true 
and  saving  grace,  contrary  to  so  many  express 
scriptures,  as  are  heretofore  adduced  in  their  prop- 
er place.  But  to  give  all  that  desire  to  be  unde- 
ceived, a  more  full  opportunity  to  observe  how  the 

M 


134  A    SHORT   EXAMINATION. 

devil  has  abused  many,  pretending  to  be  wise,  in 
making  them  cloak  with  a  pretence  of  scripture, 
false  and  pernicious  doctrines;  I  shall  take  a  few 
of  many  instances  out  of  the  Confession  of  Faith 
and  Catechism,  made  by  the  divines  at  ^'estmin' 
ster  (so  called)  because  the  same  is  not  only  most 
universally  received  and  believed  by  the  people 
of  Britain  and  Ireland,  but  also  containeth  upon 
the  matter,  the  faith  of  the  French  churches,  and 
of  most  others,  both  in  the  *N*etherlands,  and 
elsewhere;  that  it  may  appear  what  wild  conse- 
quences these  men  have  sought,  both  contrary  to 
the  naked  import  of  the  words,  and  to  all  common 
sense  and  reason,  to  cover  some  of  their  errone- 
ous principles. 


CHAP.  XVIII. 

Ji  short  examination  of  some  of  the  scripture  proofs, 

alleged  by  the  divines  at  Westminster,  to  prove 

divers  articles  in  their    Confession  of 

Faith  and  Catechism. 

It  is  not  in  the  least  my  design  in  this  chapter, 
to  offer  so  large  an  examination  of  any  of  their 
articles,  as  might  be  done,  nor  yet  of  so  many  as 
are  very  obvious;  but  only  of  two  or  three,  to  give 
the  reader  a  taste  of  them,  for  example's  sake, 
v/hereby,  as  ej?  ungue  leonem,  he  may  judge  of 
most  of  all  the  rest,  if  he  will  be  at  the  pains 
narrowly  to  look  over  and  examine  them. 


A   SHORT    EXAMINATION.  135 

I  shall  begin  with  the  first  chapter,  Sec.  1.— 
where  thej  assert  two  things:  First,  That  Godhas 
committed  his  will  now  wholly  to  writing.  Sec- 
ondly, That  the  former  ways  of  God^s  revealing 
his  will,  as  by  immediate  revelation,  are  now 
ceased.  The  scriptures  they  bring  to  prove  it,  are 
iirst,  Prov.  xxii.  19,  20,  £1.  Ver.  19.  That  thy 
trust  may  be  in  the  Lord,  I  have  made  known  unto 
thee  this  day,  even  to  thee.  Ver.  20.  Have  not  I 
written  to  thee  excellent  things  in  counsels  and 
knowledge?  Ver.  21.  That  I  may  make  thee 
know  the  certainty  of  the  words  of  truth,  that  thou 
mightest  answer  the  words  of  truth  to  them  that 
send  unto  thee.  Luke  i.  3,  4.  It  seemed  good  to 
me  also,  having  had  perfect  understanding  of  all 
things  from  the  very  first,  to  write  unto  thee  in  or- 
der, most  excellent  TheoiphWus,  that  thou  mightest 
know  the  certainty  of  those  things  wherein  thou 
hast  been  instructed.  Rom.  x v.  4.  For  whatsoever 
things  were  written  aforetime,  tvere  written  for 
our  learning,  that  we  through  patience  and  com- 
fort of  the  scriptures^  might  have  hope.  Mat.  iv. 
4,  7,  10.  But  he  answered,  and  said.  It  is  writ- 
ten, Man  shall  not  live  by  bread  alone,  but  by  every 
word  that  proceedeih  out  of  the  mouth  of  God. — 
Ver.  7.  Jesus  said  unto  him,  It  is  written  again, 
Thou  shalt  not  tempt  the  Lord  thy  God.  Ver.  10. 
Then  said  Jesus  unto  him.  Get  thee  hence,  Satan; 
for  it  is  written,  Thou  shalt  worship  the  Lord  thy 
God,  and  him  only  shalt  thou  serve,    Isa.  viii.  19« 


136  A    SHORT    EXAMINATlOIf. 

20.  •ind  when  they  shall  say  unto  you,  Seek  unto 
them  that  have  familiar  spirits,  and  unto  wizards, 
that  peep  and  that  mutter:  Should  not  a  people 
seek  unto  their  God?  For  the  living  to  the  dead? 
To  the  laivand  to  the  testimony;  if  they  speak  not 
according  to  this  word,  it  is  because  there  is  no 
light  in  them. 

But  is  it  not  matter  of  admiration,  that  men 
should  be  so  beside  themselves,  as  to  imagine 
these  testimonies  do  in  the  least  prove  their  as- 
sertion^  or  that  others  that  do  not  take  things 
merely  upon  trust,  would  be  so  foolish  as  to  be- 
lieve them?  For,  though  God  made  known,  and 
wrote  excellent  things  to  Solpmon;  though  Luke 
wrote  unto  Theophilus,  an  account  of  divers 
transactions  of  Christ's  outward  abode;  For  many 
were  never  written.  John  xxi.  25:  and  xx.  30. — 
%Qnd  there  are  also  many  other  things  which  Jesus 
did,  the  which,  if  they  should  be  tvritten  every 
one,  I  suppose,  that  even  the  world  itself  could  not 
contain  the  books  that  should  be  ivritten,  Jlnd 
many  other  signs  truly  did  Jesus  in  the  presence 
of  his  disciples,  which  are  not  ivritten  in  this 
book.  Though  Christ  made  use  of  divers  scrip- 
tures against  Satan,  and  that  Isaiah  directed  peo- 
ple to  the  law,  and  to  the  testimony;  who  will 
say,  It  naturally  foUoivs  from  thence,  that  God 
has  now  committed  his  will  wholly  to  writing? 
Such  a  consequence  is  no  more  deducible  from 
the  scriptures;  than  if  I  should  argue  thus;  Th& 


A  SHORT   EXAMINATION.  137 

divines  of  V^esimmsi^r  have  asserted  many  things 
without  groundj  therefore  they  had  ground  for 
nothing  they  said.  Nay,  it  follows  not  by  fiir  so 
naturally,  seeing  after  the  writing  of  all  these 
passages,  by  them  cited,  according  to  their  own 
judgment,  there  were  divers  scriptures  written; 
90  that  it  had  been  false  for  them  to  assert.  That 
God  had  then  committed  his  counsel  ivholly  to 
writing,  which  indeed  was  not  true:  So  it  is  most 
irrational  and  unwarrantable  for  any  to  draw  such 
a  strange  and  strained  consequence  from  their 
words. 

For  the  second,  That  the  former  ways  are  now 
ceased,  they  allege,  2  Tim.  iii.  15.  where  Faul 
writes  to  Timothy,  saying,  That  from  a  child  he 
(Timothy)  hath  known  the  holy  scriptures,  which 
njvere  able  to  make  him  wise  unto  salvation,  through 
faith,  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus.  And  Heb.  i.  1,2. 
God,  who,  at  sundry  times,  and  in  divers  manners, 
spake  in  times  past  unto  the  fathers  by  the  proph" 
ets,  hath  in  these  last  days  spoken  unto  us  by  his 
Son,  whom  he  hath  appointed  heir  of  all  things, 
by  whom  also  he  made  the  worlds.  2  Pet.  i.  19.  We 
have  also  a  more  sure  word  of  prophecy,  whereunto 
ye  do  well  that  ye  take  heed,  as  unto  a  light  that 
Fhineth  in  a  dark  place,  until  the  day  dawn,  and 
the  day-star  arise  in  your  hearts.  ^ 

Which  prove  the  matter  as  little  as  the  former: 
If  Paul  had  intended  by  that  to  Timothy,  what 
those  divines  would  have,  would  not  they  have 
M2 


138  A   SHORT    EXAMINATION^. 

wade  the  apostle  speak  a  manifest  untruth,  seeing 
they  themselves  acknowledge,  tifat  John^s  revela- 
tion was  written  long  after?    So  that  these  former  i 
ways  were  not  then  ceased.    As  for  that  of  PeteVf 
it  is  to  beg  the  thing  in  question,  to  say.  It  is  in- 
tended  of  the  scripture,'    and  though  it  were,  It 
proves  not  the  case  at  all.     That  of  the  Hebrews  \ 
is  so  far  from  asserting  the  matter  they  would  have  3 
it,  that  it  may  be  very  aptly  brought  to  prove  the 
quite  contrary;  for  God  indeed  speaks  to  us  now 
by  his  Son:  But  to  infer  from  thence.  That  the  Son 
speaks  only  to  its  by  the  scriptures,  remains  yet 
unproved:    And  for  the  apostle  to  have  there  as- 
serted it,  had  been  false;  seeing  the  revelations,  . 
which  he  and  others  afterwards  had,  were  inward,  i 
and  so  such  were  not  ceased.     And  if  we  may  ; 
trust  the  same  apostle  better  than  these  men,  he  ' 
tells  us.    That  so  soon  as  Christ  was  revealed  ia 
him,  he  went  straight  and  obeyed.    And  the  same 
apostle  tells  us,  that  Except  Christ  be  in  us,  we 
are  reprobates:  surely  he  is  not  dumb  in  us,  seeing 
he  says,  Be  will  dwell  in  us,  and  walk  in  us,  and 
be  with  us  to  the  end  bf  the  world.    And  John  tells 
us,  that  the  Inward  anointing  is  to  teach  us  all 
things;  so  that  we  need  not,  as  to  any  absolute 
necessity,  any  man  to  teach  us:  How  then  is  this 
ceased,  seeing  God  spealft  to  us  by  Christ,  and 
Christ  must  be  in  us?     Surely  these  men  have  not 
lerein  followed  the  rules  of  the  scriptures;   bttt  ^ 
ather  endeavored  most  grossly  to  wrest  them,  and 


A   SHORT    EXAMINATION.  139 

fciake  of  them  a  nose  of  wax,  notwithstanding 
their  pretences  as  to  the  contrary  in  their  sixth 
section,  where  they  say,  Ml  things  necessary  are 
either  expressly  set  down,  or  by  good  and  necessary 
consequences  may  be  deduced.  Now  that  these 
two  former  assertions  are  not  expressly  set  down, 
they  will  not  deny;  whether  they  follow  by  sound 
consequence,  any  understanding  man  may  judge, 
by  what  is  above  observed. 

There  are  divers  other  things  in  the  same  chap- 
ter, which  will  not  abide  the  test,  for  which  the 
scripture  proofs,  as  alleged  by  them,  are  most  ri- 
diculous; yet  for  brevity's  sake  I  have  omitted. 

In  Chap.  21.  Sec.  7.  where  they  say,  That  the 
Sabbath  from  the  resurrection  of  Christ.,  was 
changed  into  the  first  day  of  the  week,  which  in 
scripture  (say  they)  is  called  the  Lord'^s  day,  and 
is  to  be  continued  to  the  end  of  the  world  as  the 
Christian  Sabbath,  In  which  they  assert  three 
things. 

First — That  the  first  day  of  the  week  is  come  in 
place  of  the  seventh  for  a  sabbath:  To  prove  which 
they  allege,  1  Cor.  xvi.  1,  2.  J\*orv  concerning  the 
collection  for  the  saints,  as  I  have  given  order  to 
the  churches  of  Galatia,  even  so  do  ye:  Upon  the 
first  day  of  the  week,  let  every  one  of  you  lay  by 
him  in  store,  as  God  hath  prospered  him,  that  there 
be  no  gathering  when  I  come.  Acts  xx.  7.  *And 
upon  the  first  day  of  the  week,  when  the  disciples 
came  together  to  break  bready  Paul  preached  to 


MO  A   SHORT   EXAMINATION. 

them,  ready  to  depart  on  the  morrow f  and  continued 
his  speech  until  midnight. 

That  these  proofs  assert  not  the  thing  express- 
ly, we  need  not,  I  suppose,  dispute.  Now  to  saj, 
that  because  Paul  desired  the  Corinthians  to  lay 
somewhat  by  them  in  store  that  day;  or  because 
he  broke  bread,  and  continued  his  speech  until 
midnight;  therefore  the  first  day  of  the  week  is 
come  in  place  of  the  sabbath,  is  a  conseqaence 
more  remarkable  for  its  sottishness,  than  to  b^ 
credited  for  its  soundness:  Indeed  to  make  so  sol- 
emn an  article  of  faith,  as  these  men  would  have 
the  morality  of  the  first  day  of  the  week  to  be, 
would  need  a  more  positive  and  express  authority. 
The  text  doth  clearly  enough  tell  the  reason  of 
the  disciples  meeting  so  frequently,  and  of  PauVs 
preaching  so  long,  because  he  was  ready  to  depart' 
to-morrow;  it  speaks  not  a  word  of  its  being  sab^- 
bath.  ' 

Their  second  assertion.  That  the  first  day  of\ 
the  week  is  therefore  called  the  Lord^s  day,  is, 
drawn  yet  more  strangely  from  that  of  Rev.  i.  10..| 
J  ivas  in  the  Spirit  on  the  Lord^s  day^  and  hefArdl 
behind  me  a  great  voice,  as  of  a  trumpet^  whereas! 
no  particular  day  of  the  week  is  mentioned:  So 
for  them  to  say,  John  meaned  the  first  day  of  the 
week,  hath  no  proof  but  their  own  bare  assertion, 

For  their  third  assertion,  That  it  is  to  be  con^ 
tinued  to  the  end  of  the  world,  as  the  Christian  sah* 
hat}i,  they  allege  these  scriptures,  Exod.  xx.  8,  10, 


L  A   SHORT    EXAMINATION.  141 

fll.  Remember  the  sahhath-day,  to  keep  it  holy; 
hut  the  seventh  day  is  the  sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy 
God;  in  it  thou  shalt  not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor 
thy  son,  nor  thy  daughter,  thy  man-servant,  nor  thy 
maid-servant,  nor  thy  cattle,  nor  thy  stranger 
which  is  within  thy  gates;  for  in  sioc  days  the  Lord 
made  heaven  and  earth,  the  sea,  and  all  that  in  them 
is,  and  rested  the  seventh  day;  wherefore  the  Lord 
blessed  the  sabbath-day,  and  hallowed  it,  Isa.  Ivi. 
2,  4,  6,  7.  Mat.  v.  17, 18.  Think  not  that  I  am 
come  to  destroy  the  law  and  the  prophets;  I  am  noi 
come  to  destroy,  but  to  fulfil;  for  verily,  I  say  un- 
to  you,  till  heaven  and  earth  pass,  one  jot  or  one 
tittle  shall  in  no  wise  pass  from  the  law,  till  all  be 
fulfilled. 

If  they  prove  any  thing,  they  must  needs  prove 
the  continuance  of  the  seventh  day,  seeing  in  all 
I  the  law  there  is  no  mention  made  of  the  first  day 
iof  the  week  being  a  sabbath.  If  these  may  be 
jreckoned  good  and  sound  consequences,  I  know 
no  absurdities  so  great,  no  heresies  so  damnable, 
no  superstitions  so  ridiculous,  but  may  be  cloaked 
with  the  authority  of  the  scripture. 

In  their  27th  chapter,  and  the  first,  second,  and 
third  sections,  they  speak  at  large  of  the  defini- 
tion and  nature  of  Sacraments;  but  in  all  the 
scriptures  they  bring,  there  is  not  one  word  of 
sacraments:  The  truth  is,  there  was  a  good  reason 
for  this  omission;  for  such  a  thing  is  not  to  be 
found  iu  all  the  bible.    For  them  to  allege,  that 


142  A   SHORT  EXAMINATION. 

the  thing  signified  is  (though  that  be  also  a  beggingj 
of  the  question)  will  not  excuse  such,  who  else- 
where aver,  the  whole  counsel  of  God  is  contained 
in  the  scripture,  to  forsake  and  reject  the  tenor 
thereof,  and  scrape  out  of  the  rubbish  of  the  JRo- 
mish  tradition,  for  that  which  is  reckoned  bj 
themselves  so  substantial  a  part  of  their  faith,     j 

In  their  fourth  section  thej'  assert  two  things 
First,  That  there  are  two  only  sacraments  und 
the  gospel.  Secondly,  That  these  two  are  baptis 
and  (he  supper. 

To  prove  which,  they  allege,  Mat.  xxviil.  19.— 
Go  ye,  therefore,  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing] 
them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son^ 
and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  1  Cor.  xi.  20, 23.  When  I 
ye  come  together  therefore  into  one  place,  this  is  not 
to  eat  the  Lord's  supper:  For  I  have  received  of 
the  Lord,  that  which  also  I  delivered  unto  youy 
that  the  Lord  Jesus  the  same  night  in  which  he  was 
betrayed,  took  bread.  1  Cor.  iv.  1.  Let  a  man  so 
account  of  us,  as  of  the  ministers  of  Christ,  and 
stewards  of  the  mysteries  of  God.  Hebrews  v.  4. 
•^nd  no  man  taketh  this  honor  to  himself,  but  he  that 
is  called  of  God,  as  icas  Aaron. 

Now  granting  there  was  such  a  thing  as  sacra^v 
ments,  to  be  so  solemnly  performed,  all  that  thes^ 
scriptures  will  prove  is.  That  these  two  wereap-' 
pointed  to  be  performed^  but  that  there  are  only 
two,  or  that  these  are  they  (which  is  the  thing  as- 
serted, and  incumbent  to  be  proved)  there  is  not 


A   SHOUT   EXAMINATION.  143 

ihe  least  shadow  of  proof  alleged;  for,  according 
ko  their  own  definition  of  a  sacrament,  in  the  larger 
Catechism,  where  they  say,  The  parts  of  a  sacra- 
merit  are  two,  ihe  one  an  outward  and  sensible^ 
used  according  to  Christ^s  own  appointment^  the 
other,  an  inward  and  spiritual  grace  thereby  sig'_ 
nified;  both  the  washing  of  one  another^s  feet, 
and  the  anointing  of  the  sick  with  oil,  doth  an- 
swer to  it,  and  many  other  things:  So  that  the  pro- 
bation of  a  sacrament  at  all,  or  of  their  being  two, 
seven,  yea,  or  seventy,  is  all  alike  easy;  seeing 
neither  name  nor  number  is  to  be  found  in  the 
scripture,  they  being  the  mere  conceits  and  imagi- 
nations of  men:  And  yet  it  is  marvellous  to  see, 
with  how  great  confidence  some  men  do  assert  the 
scripture  to  be  their  rule,  while  they  build  up  so 
considerable  parts  of  their  doctrine,  without  the 
least  scripture  foundation. 

Thus  I  thought  fit  to  pitch  upon  these  three, 
viz.  The  Scriptures,  Sabbaths,  and  Sacraments, 
because  these  be  three  of  the  main  things  for  which 
we  Quakers  are  chiefly  cried  out  against,  and  ac- 
cused, as  believing  erroneously  concerning  them. 
Now  what  we  believe  concerning  these  things,  and 
how  agreeable  our  testimony  herein  is  to  the  scrip- 
tures, is  heretofore  sufficiently  demonstrated: — 
Also,  how  little  scripture-proof  these  have  for 
their  contrary  assertions  to  us  in  these  things,  not- 
withstanding their  great  pretences  to  scripture, 
;vill  also  appear  to  tl\e  unbiassed  reader. 


144  NOTE  TO  THE  HEADER.  j 

•Advertisement  to  the  Reader.  j 

Note,  Reader,  That  I  have  here  throughout,  s 
made  use  of  the  last  common  translation  of  the 
bible;  and  if  I  would  have  made  use  of  the  Hebrew 
and  Greek,  I  could  liave  produced  divers  other 
very  clear  scriptures,  which  in  the  common  trans- 
lation are  corrupted  and  perverted;  but  I  choosed, 
rather  to  do  thus,  that  our  opposers  might  see  I 
took  no  advantage  that  waj;  and  also,  that  all 
that  can  but  read,  may  find  the  places  cited  ia; 
their  ovi^n  bibles. 


THE 

i 

ANCIENT  TESTIMONY 


OF  THE 


PEOPLE  CALLED  QUAKERS, 


REVIVED. 


BY     THE     ORDER      AND      APPROBATION      OF     THE 

YEARLY    MEETING,    HELD    FOR  THE  PROVIN- 

OES  OF   PENNSYLVANIA     AND  N.  JERSEY, 

1722, 


Wilmington,  del: 
printed  and  sold  by  james  wilson. 

182L 


I 


THE 

ANCIENT    TESTIMONY 

OF  THE 

PEOPLE  CALLED  qUJKERS, 

1)ear  Friends, 

HAVING  lately  by  an  introduction  to  Introduc- 
our  'Book  of  Discipline,'  given  a  short  hint  how 
our  respective  meetings,   for  church  affairs,   do 
consist,  and  by  what  authority,  and  example,  they 
came  at  first  to  be  instituted,  we  think  well  at 
this  time,  for  the  further  information,  and  encour- 
agement of  our  youth,  and  others,  whose  faces  ara 
turned  towards  Zion,   to  signify,   that  by  living 
experience,  we  find,  and  can  with  good  conscience 
declare  and  testify,  that  the  same  blessed  Holy    , 
Spirit  which  led  us  to  believe   and  receive  the  Spirit  leads 
doctrines  and  principles  of  truth,  (as  they  were  qj.^q^ 
declared  by  Christ  and  his  apostles  in  the  holy 
scriptures)  did  and  now  doth,  lead  us  into  the  like 
holy  order  and  government  to  be  exercised  among 
lis,  as  it  was  amongst  the  primitive  Christians,  in 
sanctification  and  holiness. 


148  ANCIENT   TESTIMONY  ! 

The  For  the  church  of  God  is  a  gathering  of  < them  I 

cliurcli  ' 

defined.      that  are  sanctified'  by  the  word  of  truth,   'called 

ICor,  1.2.    ^Q  5e  saints,'  who  are  members  of  the  body,  even  j 
the  true  church,  whereof  Jesus  Christ  is  the  head:j| 
But  before  any  can  come  to  be  true  members  ofj! 
pjg^y  that  body,  they  must  witness  the  fiery  baptism  ofj- 

baptism,  the  Holy  Ghost,  to  initiate  them  into  this  true 
Mat.l9. 18.  church;  and  as  they  follow  Christ,  in  the  regene- 
«ration,  they  will  witness  a  purity  of  living,  and} 
Qualifies  to  be  qualified  to  act  and  judge  for  him,  who  in  dis^ 
actfoiGod.  pensing  his  Holy  Spirit,  doth  in  his  infinite  wis- 
dom,   minister  unto   every  member  a   measure 

The  opera-  thereof  which  operates  diversely  'for  the  edifying 
tion  of  the     p   ,,       ,     ,        Z  ,    .  -^  ^,  -^     "* 

Spirit di-     01    the  body,   there   being  some  apostles,   some^ 

E^w^il    teachers,  some  pastors,'  some  elders,  young  men! 

1  Cor  12.     and  babes:  for  all  are  not  apostles,  elders,  noc 

28.  r  '  ' 

babes;  yet  all  who  are  truly  gathered  are  mem- 
bers, and  as  such,  have  a  sense  and  feeling  of  the 
life  of  the  body  flowing  from  the  head  Jesus 
Christ.     And  whilst  they  remain  in  that  sense, 

Eph  4,  2,3.  acting  'with  all  lowliness,  meekness,  and  long- 
suffering,  forbearing  one  another  in  love,  endeav- 
oring to  keep  the  unity  of  the  Spirit  in  the  bond 
of  peace,'  they  will  be  indued  with  right  judg- 
ment, seasoned  with  pure  charity,  and  perfectii 
love,  which  is  the  bond  of  our  holy  communion*! 
and  church-fellowship. 

The  «-ov-        And  as  we  become  thus  initiated  and  qualified,  j 


ernment  Ox  ^^.g  ^\iq\\  be  enabled  to  maintain  the  holy  order  ! 
the  Chris-  -^  j 

tian church  and  government  above-mentioned  in  perfect  nni>  1 


OF  THTl  QUAKERS.  149 

,  iy;  and  according  to  the  degree  of  faithfulness  to  be  in 

'  we  are  found  in,  shall  more  and  more  see  'the  unity. 

.holy^city  New  Jerusalem  cominff  down  from  God  ^f^^  '^^^"- 

•^        •'  ®  salem  or 

out  of  heaven,  prepared  as  a  bride  adorned  for  church  of 

her  husband,'  and  the  river  of  water  of  life  pro-  Rev  21  9 

ceeding  out  of  the  throne  of  God,    and  of  the 

Lamb;  which  city  being  the  true  church,  'had  a  i^ewall* 

wall  great  and  high,'  signifying  the  excellency  of 

God's  power  encompassing  those  that  are  within 

this  church,  and  keeping  out  all  that  would  invade 

or  hurt  it:  «And  this  wall  had  twelve  foundations,  ^"^  ^*°^"- 

dations 
and  on  them  the  names  of  the  twelve  apostles  of  thereof. 

the  Lamb;'  which  denotes  that  the  doctrines  of^^^^^^"^" 

the  apostles  are  to  be   embraced,   and  those  that 

are  not  founded  upon  them   to  be  rejected  and 

shut  out  of  this  holy  city  which  had    but    one 

street,   and  that  is  the   way  to  the  tree  of  life, 

where  the  true  members  of  the  church  of  Christ 

are  travelling  in  the  unity  of  his  blessed   Spirit; 

and  so  they  become   *of  one  heart,  and   of  one  Acts4.  22. 

soul,'  as  the  multitude  of  them  that  believed  in 

the  apostle's  days  were,  in  which  precious  unity 

we  shall  feel  the  life  of  righteousness. 


'o' 


And  as  we  come  to  feel  this  life,   and  therein  Glory  of 

experience  the  arisings  of  this  glorious   day  of  ^^^^  ^P^^'^- 
,  11-1  .11.  /.  ual  dispell" 

love  and  light,   with  the  increase  of  this  blessed  sation. 

unity,  we  shall  more  and  more  witness  the  glory 

of  this  spiritual  dispensation  by  knowing  God's 

<tabernacle  with  us,'  and  his  dwelling  in  us,  and  Rev21.  0, 

the  peaceable  government  of  the  Lamb  among  us 

N2 


Rev 


UU  ANCIENT  TESTIMONY 

mysteriously  signified  by  the  descending  of  this 
holy  city;    and  as  we  abide  here,  we  shall  with 
21. 1.    John  see  no  more  sea,  that  is,  we  shall  not  degen-  | 
dmsion  in  Grate  into  that  outrageous  and  dividing  principle  \ 
the  church  ^j^^^  j^^s  at  times  prevailed  in  some  that  walked] 
amongst  us  to  manifest  they  were  not  of  us;  but  J 
Romans  12.  shall  'present  our  bodies  a  living  sacrifice,  holy,* 
'  '   '        acceptable  unto  God,  which  is  our  reasonable  ser- 
vice,  and  not  be  conformed  to  this  world,  but 
transformed  by  the  renewing  of  our  mind,  proving 
what  is  that  good,  acceptable,  and  perfect  will  of 
God,'  and  then  none  among  us  'will  think  of  him- 
self more  highly  than  he  ought;   but  will  think 
soberly  according  as  God  hath  dealt  to  every  man 
the  measure  of  faith, 
verse  6.  For  having  ^gifts  differing,'  as  said  the  apostle, 

di'ff  rine-  'according  to  the  grace  that  is  given  to  us,  whether 
prophecy,  we  shall  prophesy  according  to  the  pro- 
portion of  faith;  or  ministry,  we  shall  wait  on  our 
ministry;  or  he  that  teacheth,  on  teaching;  or  he 
that  exhorteth,  on  exhortation:  he  that  giveth,  will 
do  it  with  simplicity;  he  that  ruleth,  with  dili- 
gence; he  that  sheweth  mercy,  with  cheerfulness:' 

Romans  12.  our  love  will  be  *  without  dissimulation,  abhorrino- 
9  to  14.  . 

that  which  is  evil,  cleaving  to  that  which  is  good, 

kindly  aft'ectioned  one  towards  another  with 
brotherly  love,  in  honor  preferring  one  another, 
not  slothful  in  business,'  but  providing  things  hon- 
est in  the  sight  of  all  men,  and  yet  have  our 
minds  kept  above  the  surfeiting  cares  of  the 


OF  THE  QUAKERS.  lot 

,\vorltl,   by  being  'fervent  in  spirit,  serving  the 

Lord,   rejoicing  in  hope,   patient  in  tribulation, 

continuing  instant  in  prayer,  distributing  to  the 

necessity  of  saints,  given  to  hospitality,  blessing 

them  which  persecute  us,  and  not  curse.' 

AVe  shall  also  'be  of  the  same  mind  one  towards  Several 

another,  affecting  not  high  things,  but  condescend-  Ronfansl^ 

ing  to  men  of  low  estate:  not  wise  in  our  own  1^»  l^» 
.  18,21. 

conceits;  nor  recompense  to  any  man  evil  for  evil,  iPeterS.  9, 

or  railing  for  railing;  but  overcome  evil  with  good; 
and  as  much  as  lieth  in  us,  live  peaceably  with  all 
men,  having  the  same  love,  doing  nothing  through  Phil2:  2,3, 
strife  or  vain  glory,  but  in  lowliness  of  mind,  each 
esteeming  the  other  better  than  themselves;'  the 
strongest  and  best  gifted,  not  despising  the  mean- 
est,  nor  they  envying  the  strongest;    but  all   in 
their  respective  stations  and  degrees  will  'walk  phus.  i6. 
by  the  same  rule,'   be  of  one  accord,  'and  mind 
the  same  thing,'  heartily  joining  to  maintain  char-  Charity  in 
ity  in  all  its  branches,  and  carry  on  the  affairs  of  branches 
truth  in  the  lamb  like  spirit  to  the  honor  of  God  ^^  be 

1  f    i.  r         xi        •     I  •  1.1  maintained 

and  comrort  one  oi  another  in  him,  and  then  we 

shall  demonstrate  that  we   experimentally  know 

there  is  'one  body,  and  one  Spirit,  one  Lord,  one  Enh4 

faith,  one  baptism,  one  God  and  Father  of  all,  who  ^»  ^>  ^' 

is  above  all,  and  through  all,  and  in  us  all. 

By  all  which,  it  is  manifest  that  our  church-fel-  Church 

lowship  stands  in  the  bond  of  charity  and  true  ^^"^^'^^"P' 

unity  of  the   Holy  Spirit,   the  fruit  whereof,   as 

saith  the  apostle;  'is  in  all  goodness,  righteousness  Eph5. 9, 


152  ANCIENT  TESTIMONY 

Thefmltof  and  truth,  love,  joy,  peace,  long-suffenng,  gentle-^ 
Gal  5; 22,     ness,  faith,  meekness,  temperance,  against  such 

23, 14,  16,  there  is  no  law:    for  the  law  is  fulfilled   in  one 
17.  ' 

The  law  word,'  saith  the  same  apostle,  <even  this.   Thou 

falfilled.  gj^^,^  j^yg  ^j^^  neighbor  as  thyself;'  which  is  that^ 

perfect  charity  we  speak  of,  and  desire  all  majj 
come  unto,  and  be  preserved  in;  so  that  God  ('who 
is  love')  may  take  delight  in  us,   and  make  his 
abode  with  us,  and  then  shall  we  *walk  in  the  Spir- 
it, and  not  fulfil  the  lusts  of  the  flesh,  for  the  flesh 
iusteth  against  the  Spirit,  and  the  Spirit  against 
the  flesh.' 
The  works      'The  works  of  the  flesh  are  manifest;'  (said  the 
Gal's^lt'  ^P^^^^^  ^^^^^  *-^  ^^^  Galatians,)  <which  are  these; 
20,21.         adultery,  fornication,  uncleanness,  lasciviousness,   | 
idolatry,  witchcraft,  hatred,  variance,  emulations, 
wrath,  strife,  seditions,  heresies,  envyings,  mur- 
ders, drunkenness,  revelling  and  such  like;  and 
they   that  do  such  {hings  shall  not   inherit   the 
kingdom  of  God.'     And  the  same  apostle,  when 
he  wrote  to  the  churches  of  Rome,  Corinth,  Ephe- 
sus,  and  Coloss,  testifying  against  the  like  evils, 
Er)h  5.  4,5,  a"<^'  against  'foolish  talking  and  jesting,'  he  added, 
^:l'}^'^      that 'no  whoremonger,  nor  unclean  person,  nor 
covetous  man  who  is  an  idolater,  hath  any  inher- 
itance in  the  kingdom  of  Christ  and  of  God,  for  I 
because  of  these  things  cometh  the  wrath  of  God 
upon  the  children  of  disobedience:    Be  not  there- 
fore (said  he)  partakers  with  them,  and  have  no 


OF  THE  QUAKERS.  153 

^^ fellowship  with  the  unfruitful  works  of  darkness, 
but  rather  reprove  them.' 

And  the  same  apostle  speaking  of  some  'who  Eph  4. 
were  past  feeling,  had  given  themselves  over  to 
lasciviousness  to  work  all  uncleanness  with  greed- 
iness: But  je,  (said  he  to  the  believers)  have  not 
so  learned  Christ;  If  so  be,  that  ye  have  heard 
him,  and  have  been  taught  hy  him  as  the  truth  ie 
in  Jesus;  that  ye  put  off  concerning  the  former 
conversation  the  old  man  which  is  corrupt,  accord- 
ing to  deceitful  lusts;  and  be  renewed  in  the  spirit 
of  your  mind;  and  that  ye  put  on  the  new  man, 
Avhich  after  God  is  created  in  righteousness  and 
true  holiness;  wherefore  putting  away  lying,  speak 
every  man  truth  with  his  neighbor;  for  we  are 
members  one  of  another:'  And  after  he  forbad 
them  *to  be  angry  and  give  place  to  the  devil,'  he 
would  have  them  that  'stole,  steal  no  more,'  and 
that  <no  corrupt  communication  should  proceed 
out  of  their  mouth;  but  that  which  is  good  to  the 
use  of  edifying,  that  it  might  minister  grace  to  the 
hearers,  and  that  all  bitterness  and  wrath,  and  an- 
ger, and  clamor,  and  evil  speaking  should  be  put 
away,  with  all  malice.' 

And  the  apostle  having  testified  against  those 

*who  were  full  of  envy,  murder,  debate,  deceit,  l^omans  t. 

•^  29, 30, 

malignity,  whisperers,  backbiters,  haters  of  God,  31,  is. 

despiteful,    proud,    boasters,    inventors    of  evil 

things,   disobedient  to  parents;   without    under* 

standing,  covenant  breakers,  witheut  natural  af- 


154  ANCIENT   TESTIMONY 

fection,  implacable,  unmerciful,  and  such  as  held 
1  Cor  6. 9,    the  truth  in  unrighteousness,'  he  saith,  *Know  ye 
'     *         not  that  the  unrighteous  shall  not  inherit  the  king- 
dom of  God:     Be  not  deceived;  neither  fornica- 
tors, nor  idolaters,  nor  adulterers,  nor^-effeminate, 
nor  abusers  of  themselves    with  mankind,    nor 
thieves^  nor  covetous,  nor  drunkards,  norrevilers, 
nor   extortioners,   shall  inherit  the   kingdom   of 
God;    and  such  were  some  of  you;    but  ye  are 
washed,  but  ye  are  sanctified,  but  ye  are  justified, 
in  the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  by  the  Spirit 
of  our  God.'   By  this  we  may  clearly  understand, 
that  the  vilest  of  people,  as  they  give  way  to  the 
power  and  word  of  truth,  may  be  sanctified,  and 
so  become  members  of  the  church  of  Christ,  which 
is  great  encouragement  for  all  to  submit  them- 
selves to  the  divine  holy  hand,  that  leads  them  to 
repentance  and  amendment  of  life. 
Apostates.       ^"^  ^^®  ^^^J  observe,  that  notwithstanding  the 
S'"^9  17  "^^"J  cautions  and  repeated  advice  of  the  apos- 
3.  8.  ties,  yet  some  in  their  days,  as  in  our  time,  who 
3  John  9.     P»'ofessed  the  truth,  and  seemed  in  measure  re- 
Gal  2. 4.      deemed  out  of  the  evils  of  this  world,  fell  into 
1  Cor  1.12.    ,  ,     ,      ,..  .  .         .  .  ,     , 

5.  1.  these  and  the  like  enormities  which  the  apostles 

testified  against;  and  some  others  who  were  then 
gathered  into  the  belief  of  the  principles  and  doc- 
trines of  the  gospel  of  Christ,  fell  from  those 
principles  as  some  have  done  in  our  day;  in  which 
cases  such  as  stood  firm  in  the  faith,  had  power  by 
the  Spirit  of  God  (after  Christian  endeavors  to 


OF  THE  quAKEns.  155 

'convince  and  reclaim  those  backsliders)  to  exclude 
them  from  our  spiritual  fellowship  and  commu- 
nion, as  also  the  privileges  they  had  as  fellow 
members;  which  power,  we  know  by  good  expe- 
rience, continues  with  us  in  carrying  on  the  dis- 
cipline of  the  church  in  the  spirit  of  meekness. 

Therefore,  we  say,  as  our  brethren  have  here-  Poorer  in 
tofore  concluded,  that  where  any  in  the  church  of  ^o  censure, 
God,  pretending  conscience  or  revelation,  shall 
arise  to  teach  and  practise  (however  insignificant 
or  small  in  themselves)  whether  principles  or  prac- 
tice, yet  if  they  be  contrary  to  such  as  are  already 
received  as  true,  and  confirmed  by  God's  Spirit 
in  the  hearts  of  his  saints;  and  that  the  introdu- 
cing of  these  things  tend  to  bring  reproach  upon 
the  truth,  as  such  as  are  not  edifying  in  them- 
selves, and  so  stumble  the  weak;  those  who  have 
a  true  and  right  discerning,  may  in  and  by  the 
power  of  God  authorising  them  (and  no  otherwise) 
condemn  and  judge  such  things;  and  their  so  do- 
ing will  be  obligatory  upon  all  the  members  that 
have  a  true  sense,  because  they  will  see  it  to  be 
so,  and  submit  to  it. 

Whatsoever  innovation,  difference,  or  diverse  Innova^ 
appearance,  whether  in  doctrine  or  practice,  pro-  ^^^^^' 
ceedeth  not  from  the  pure  moving  of  the  Spirit  of 
God,  or  is  not  done  out  of  pure  tenderness  of  con- 
science, but  either  from  that  which  being  puffed 
up  affecteth  singularity,  and  there-through  would 
be  observed,  commended  and  cxaltedj  or  from 


io6  ANCIENT   TESTIMONY 

that  which  the  malignity  of  some  humors  and  nat-  ' 
ural  tempers,  which  will  be  contradicting  without 
cause,  and  secretly  begetting  divisions,  animosities 
and  emulations,  by  which  the  unity  and  unfeigned 
love  of  the  brethren  is  lessened  or  rent,  all  things 
proceeding  from  this  root  and  spirit,  however  little 
they  may  be  supposed  to  be  of  themselves,  are  to 
be  guarded  against,  withstood  and  denied  as  hurt- 
ful to  the  true  church's  peace  and  hindrance  of  the 
prosperity  of  truth. 
Things  And  now  we  come  to  take  notice  of  some  things 

d^em^kw-  *^^^*  others  professing  Christianity,  deem  lawful, 
ful,  are  not  which  are  not  so  to  us,  as  swearing  and  fighting, 
or  going  to  war  when  required  by  lawful  authority. 
The  first  we  testify  against,  because  it  is  contrary 
to  the  express  command  of  our  blessed  Saviour, 
Swearing,    who  said,  'Swear  not  at  all;'  and  the  apostle  James 
Mat  5.34.    writing  to  the  twelve  scattered  tribes,  who  ac- 
cording to  their  law,  were  to  'swear  by  the  Lord, 
Janies5.12.  ^"^  perform  their  oaths  to  him,'  saith,  'But  above 
all  things,   my  brethren,   swear  not;    neither  by 
heaven,   neither  by  the  earth,  nor  by  any  other 
oath;  but  let  your  yea  be  yea,  and  your  nay,  nay, 
lest  you  fall  into  condemnation.'    By  this  we  be- 
lieve, that  all  oaths  commanded  or  allowed  by  the 
Mosaical  law,   which  took  their  beginning  from 
want  of  truth  and  faithfulness,  as  well  as  the 
oaths  of  those  times,  are  totally  abrogated,  and 
instead  thereof  the  speaking  of  truth  established^ 
and  we  are  greatly  thankful  to  God  that  our  su- 


OF  THE  qUAKEHS.  15j 

|)€rior8  in  Great  Britain  have  been  pleased  to  grant 
relief  and  ease  to  us  in  that  point,  and  hope  it 
^yi^  be  a  firm  and  renewed  obligation  upon  us  to 
keep  peaceable,  faithful,  harmless  and  honest  to- 
wards all  t\\e  children  of  men:  and  then  we  shall 
assuredly  be  preserved  out  of  those  contests,  fal- 
lacies, strife  and  perfidies  against  which  oaths 
were  at  first  introduced  as  a  remedy,  and  are  still 
alleged  to  be  a  security. 

And  since  we  must  not  ^swear  at  all,'  we  can-  Admln^- 
not  administer  oaths  to  others;  therefore  let  all  of  oaUis? 
our  community  who  are  or  may  be  concerned  as 
magistrates,  be  tender  of  God's  honor  in  this  mat- 
ter. 

And  as  for  wars  and  fightings,  they  are  alto-  "Wars) 
^ther  unlawful  to  us,  because  our  Lord  and  Sa- 
viour Jesus  Christ,  (who  for  the  excellency  of  his 
government  is  called  'the  Prinze  of  Peace')  in  his  isa9:  <3. 
blessed  Sermon  upon  the  mount,  commanded  that 
we  should  'love  our  enemies.'  Mat  5:  44^. 

And  the  apostle  Paul  exhorts  not  to  ^avenge  Romans  1^; 
ourselves;' but  if  our  «nemy  hunger,  we  must  feed     *     ' 
Jiim;  if  he  thirst,  give  him  drink:'     But  it  is  evi- 
dent, that  war  teacheth  to  hate,  famish  and  destroy 
them.     The  same  apostle  declares,  that  'we  war  scor  10:  3, 
not  after  the  flesh,'  nor  'wrestle  against  flesh  and  ^P^i  6-  l^» 
blood:'  But  outward  war  is  according  to  the  flesh, 
and  against  flesh  and  blood,  for  the  shedding  of 
the  one  and  destroying  of  the  other.     'I'he  same 
apostle  saith  further,  'The  weapons  of  our  warfare  sCorlO:  ^. 


158 


AXCIENT  TESTIMONY 


are  not  carnal,  but  mighty  through  God;'  so  are 
not  the  weapons  of  outward  warfare;  and  the 
jameg  4.  1  apostle  James  testifies,  that  <wars  and  fightings 
come  from  lusts,'  and  those  lusts  war  in  the  mem* 
bers  of  carnal  men:  But  such  as  have  crucified 
the  flesh  with  its  afiections  and  lusts,  cannot  in- 
dulge them  by  waging  war;  nor  can  the  servants 
J©hnl8:36.  of  Christ  fight,  because 'his  kingdom  is  not  of  this 
world.'  So  that  when  Peter  used  the  sword,  his 
Lord  and  Master  reproved  him,  saying,  'Put  up 
again  thy  sword  into  his  place,  for  all  they  that 
take  up  the  sword,  shall  perish  with  the  sword.' — 
We  are  not  without  sorrowful  instances  of  some 
that  have  been  educated  in  the  peaceable  princi^ 
pies  here  asserted,  and  yet  became  so  far  degene- 
rated from  it  as  to  use  the  sword;  and  they  per- 
ished by  the  sword;  which  is  here  mentioned  only 
as  a  warning  to  those  who  by  pursuing  the  vanity 
of  their  minds,  may  happen  to  stray  out  of  the 
pure  path  of  peace,  and  fall  into  the  like  incon* 
veniences. 
ehrist's  ^J  ^^1  which  it  may  appear,  that  Jesus  Christ 

banner.  ^\^q  captain  of  our  salvation,  calls  those  that  list 
themselves  under  his  banner,  to  bear  his  cross, 
and  abide  in  humility,  patience,  simplicity  and 
Revenge,  ^^""^  charity,  and  not  any  ways  indulge  the  least 
aioml2: 17.  thought  of  revenge,  or  ^rendering  evil  for  evil,  or 
railing  for  railing;'  much  less  endeavor  to  advance 
themselves  by  the  fraudulent  stratagems  of  war; 
bat  suffer  true  love  to  take  place  of  wrath,  and 


OFTHE  quAKzns.  15D 

forgiveness  to  overcome  injury  and  revenge;  so 
the  Lamb  will  be  preserved  before  the  lion,  and 
<the  lion'  resign  to,  and  'lie  down  with  the  Lamb.' 

And  although  these  testimonies  of  Christ  and 
his  apostles  are  so  clear  against  wars  and  fightings, 
yet  our  elder  brethren  and  some  of  us  formerly, 
suffered  much  because  we  could  not  ourselves  bear  Sufferings 
arms,  nor  send  others  in  our  places,  nor  pay  for  ^  "^"  ^'■ 
buying  of  drums  and  other  military  attire,  as  also 
for  not  observing  those  days  which  were  appointed 
to  crave  a  blessing  for  success  to  the  arms  of  the 
nation  where  we  lived,  or  to  give  thanks  for  the 
victories  acquired  by  the  effusion  of  much  blood. 

There  are  other  things,  as  giving  flattering  ti-  Flattering 
ties,  uncovering  the  head,  and  cringing  to  men,  i,\p^^'gic.^^ 
calling  the  days  and  months  by  the  heathen  names, 
and  drinking  one  to  another,  drinking  healths,  ri- 
otings,   banquetings,  and   using   games,    sports,  Games,  &b. 
plays,  revels,  comedies,  and  such  like  (which  ma- 
ny of  the  professors  of  Christianity  allow)  are  not 
at  all  lawful  to  us,  because  they  not  only  waste 
that  time  which  is  but  lent  us,  and  should  be  spent 
to  the  honor  of  God,  but  also  naturally  draw  men 
from  God's  fear;  and  we  know  the  testimony  of 
the  Spirit  of  Truth  is  against  them,  and  the  in* 
ward  convictions  of  light  and  grace  in  our  own 
hearts,  have  prevailed  upon  us  to  lay  them  aside. 

And  some  called  Christians  about  the  first  com-  «      .    a.^ 

Sports,  &jC. 

ing  forth  of  our  friends,  encouraged  people  to  go 
from  their  worships  to  gaming,  sportings,  music> 


160  AlJCIEST  TESTIHOSX 

dancing,   wrestling,   running  of  races,  and  tfe 
like,  counting  it  not  inconsistent  with  religion  so 
to  do,   which  was  so  abominable  in   the  sight  of 
God  that  he  was  pleased  to  raise  a  holy  zeal  in 
our  elder  brethren  against  those  ungodly  practi- 
Drinking     ces,  and  against  drinking  healths,  banquetings  and 
healths^&c.  j-Jotous  living,  which  not  only  provoke  people  to 
excess  of  eating,  drinking,  laughter,  foolish  talk- 
ing, jesting,  and  such  like  things  that  are  sinful, 
and  in  no  wise  becoming  the  solidity,  gravity  and 
sobriety  which  men  professing  Christianity  ought 
to  be  adorned  with;  but  it  is  obvious,  that  such  as 
run  into  those  excesses,  bring  a  scorn  and  slight 
upon  their  profession,  to  the  grief  of  the  honest 
hearted;  and  not  only  so,  but  they  lay  themselves 
open  to  commit  all  such  vices  as  the  devil  may 
tempt  them  to. 
Scripture        -^"^^  *^"^'  constant  testimony  has  been,  and  is 
language,    against  saying  you  to  a  single  person,  not  only 
because  it  is  contrary  to   the  true   propriety  of 
speech  and  scripture  language;  but  it  gratifies  that 
Arro-  proud    Haman-like   spirit    which    possesses    the. 

gance.  heart  of  such  who  would  arrogate  to  themselves 
the  homage  and  reverence  due  to  God,  requiring 
to  be  addressed  in  such  language  as  they  judge 
more  honorable  than  that  which  tiiey  bestow  upon. 
the  Almighty, 

Respect  And  because  our  ancient  friends  and  elders  in 

to  mGti> 

the  truth  could  not  join  with  that  spirit,  they  suf- 
fered deeply  for  their  innocent  testiuioDy  against 


OK  THE  QUAKERS.  161 

/ii,  and  yet  upon  all  occasions  shewed  the  decetit 
f  respect  due  to  men  and  maintained  in  the  wisdom 
of  God,  the  true  honor  and  obedience  due  from 
subjects  to  their  prince,  inferiors  to  superiors,  Honorto 
from  children  to  parents,  and  servants  to  masters,  ^"P^"®^^- 
whereby  the  mutual  relations  betwixt  those  differ- 
ent ranks  and  degrees  of  men  hiave  been  and  are 
asserted  and  endeavored  to  be  established  after 
the  manner  our  Saviour  and  his  apostles  were 
pleased  to  direct. 

Now  before  we  go  further,  we  think  proper  to 
give  some  accounts  of  our  principles  and  practi- 
ces concerning  those  mutual  relations  or  ranks  of 
men.  And  first  of  kings,  rulers,  and  magistrates.  Of  kings 
as  it  is  our  belief,  that  the  powers  and  government  RomTs^^l! 
we  live  under  are  of  the  Lord,  so  we  acknowledge 
that  fidelity  and  subjection  are  due  to  those  who 
are  in  authority  over  us,  expecting  only  the  bene- 
fit of  those  good  laws  which  are  deemed  our  birth- 
right as  English  subjects,  and  not  the  protection 
by  gun  and  sword  which  others  make  the  terms 
of  their  allegiance;  and  we  faithfully  own,   that 
magistracy  is  an  ordinance  of  God,  and  <those  Magistracy 
who  rule  well  are  worthy  of  double  honor,'  and  i*°P  ^?\.S* 
deserve  to  be  really  valued  and  much  esteemed, 
not  by  giving  them  vain  appellations  or  flattering 
titles,  nor  by  bowing  the  body,  or  uncovering  the 
head,  nor  by  feigned  words  called  compliments, 
but  by  obeying  their  just  and  lawful  commands, 

02 


1$£  ANCIENT   TESTIMONY 

wherein  the  true  honor  and  subjection  due  to  theui 
doth  chiefly  consist. 
Sapplica-        And  it  has  been,  and  is  our  frequent  concern 
Mni^&c    according  to  the  pure  leadings  and  dictates  of 
God's  Holy  Spirit  in  our  nearest  approaches  to 
J  o^"^~'      the  throne  of  his  grace  to  make  'supplication, 
prayer,  intercession,   and  giving  of  thanks   for 
kings,  and  all  that  are  in  authority:'  And  we  have 
not  been  wanting  in  our  respective  places  and 
stations,  to  put  people  in  mind,  as  the  apostle  ex- 
Tltus  S:  1.  horted,  to  be 'subjected  to  principalities  and  povv- 
-13  14^^       ^^^^  ^^  ^^^y  ^magistrates,  and  submit  to  e-very  or- 
dinance of  man  for  the  Lord's  sake,  whether  it  be 
to  the  king  as  supreme,  or  unto  governors  as  unto 
them  that  are  sent  by  him  for  the  punishment  of 
evil-doers,  and  praise  of  them  that  do  well;'  for  so 
Ham  13:  4.  the   magistrates  'are   ministers  of  God  to  us  for 
good,  bearing  not  the  sword  in  vain,  being  reven- 
gers to  execute  wrath  upon  him  that  doth  evil;' 
and  for  this  cause  pay  we  tribute  also,  for  they  are 
God's  ministers  attending  continually  on  this  verj^ 
thing. 
I.aw3  Yet  when  laws  and  statutes  were  made,  requi* 

coiT-  °         ^^^§  certain  conformities  which  for  conscience-sake 

science.       could  not  be  complied  with  by  our  faithful  friends, 
G.  F.  II:  .  ^  .  ''  , 

(2^.  some  magistrates,  instead  of  the  sword  of  justice^ 

took  up  the  sword  of  persecution  against  them; 
nevertheless  they  did  not  resist,  but  patiently  suf- 
fered the  spoiling  of  their  goods,  grievous  impris- 
onments, scourging  and  banishaient  from   theif 


®F  THE  QUAKERS.  163 

tender  families,  friends  and  relations;  choosing,  as 
the  holy  apostles  did  in  the  like  case,  'to  obey  God  ^^^^  ^'  |^^ 
rather  than  men;'  for  they  could  not  'but  speak 
the  things  which  they  had  seen  and  heard;'   and 
for  all  this  cruel  usage  and  sufferings,  they  paid 
their  taxes  and  tributes,  'rendering  to  Ceesar  the  Mat 22-  21 
things  which  were  his,  and  to  God  the  things  that 
were  his;'  for  so  was  'the  will  of  God,  that  with  ip^ts-  15 
well  doing,  they  should  put  to  silence  the  igno- 
rance of  foolish  men. 

And  here  it  is  necessary  to  distinguish  between  Distin- 

the  laws  or  statutes  which  occasioned  those  suf- ^"'^1^/^°"* 

good  law. 

ferino;s,  and  the  law,  which  the  apostle  said,  'islTiml: 

8  9  10 
good  if  a  man  use  it  lawfully,  knowing  this,  that   *   '     ' 

the  law  is  not  mide  for  the  righteous  man,  but  for 
the  lawless  and  disobedient,  for  the  ungodly  and 
for  sinners,  for  unholy  and  profane,  for  murderers  Titusl:  10% 
of  fathers,  and  murderers  of  mothers,  for  man- 
slayers,  for  whoremongers,  for  them  that  defile 
themselves  with  mankind,  for  maH-stealers,  for 
liars,  for  perjured  persons,  and  for  any  other  thing 
that  is  contrary  to  sound  doctrine.' 

Signed  in  and  by  order  of  the 
said  meeting,  this  19th  day 
of  the  7ih  mo.  1722,  by 

mMUJEL  FBESTOjy, 


THE  CO^^TEJS^TS. 


PAGlTv 

GJiap,  1.     Of  God,  and  the  true  and  saving 

knowledge  of  him.         -         -         -        -  7 

Chap,  2.     Of  the  rule  and  guide  of  Chris- 

iians^  and  of  the  scriptures.         -         -  9^ 

Chap.  3.     Of  Jesus  Christ  being  manifest  in 

the  flesh,  the  end  and  use  of  it.         -         '12 
Chap.  4.     Of  the  New  Birth,  the  inward  ap- 
pearance of  Christ  in  Spirit,  and  the  unity 
of  the  saints  with  him.         -         -         -  20 

Chap.  5,     Of  the  light  wherewith  Christ  hath 
enlightened  every   man;    the  universality 
and  sufiiciency  of  God's  grace,  to  all   the 
world,  made  manifest  therein.         -         -       24 
\Chop,  6.     Of  faith,  justiiication  and  works.      36 
'"'         ~      Of  perfection,  or  freedom  from  sin.     42 
Of  perseverance,  and  falling  from 

51 

Of  the  church  and  ministry.         -      55 
Of  worship.         -         -         -  69 

Of  baptism,  and  bread  and  wine.     7S 
.      Of  the  life  of  a  Christian,  in  gen- 
what  and  how  it  ought  to  be  in  this 

-  78 

Of  magistracy.         -        -        -       97 
Of  the  resurrection.         -         -      100 
A  short  introduction  to  the  con- 
fession of  faith.         -         -        -         -  103 
Chap.  16.     A  confession  of  faith,  containing 

twenty  three  articles.         -         -         -  lOJr 

Jirticle  1.     Of  God,  and  the  true  and  saving 

knowledge  of  him.         -         -         -         -      ib. 
Art.  2.     Of  the  guide  and  rule  of  0/iris<ians.  106 
Art.  3.     Of  the  scriptures.         -         -         -    i6. 
Jirt.  4.     Of  the  divinity  of  Christ,  and  his 
being  from  the  beginning.         -        -        -   107 


!  Chap. 

/ . 

Chap. 

8. 

grace. 

Chap. 

9. 

Chap. 

10. 

Chnp. 

11. 

Chap, 

12. 

era! 

,  w^l 

world. 

Chap. 

13. 

Chap, 

14. 

map. 

15. 

i>irt.  5.    Of  his  appearance  in  the  flesh.  10^ 

drt.  6.     Of  the  end  and  use  of  that  appear- 
ance.       .--.--  ib, 
^rt.  7.    Of  the    inward    manifestation    of 

Christ. 101 

Jirt.  8.     Of  the  new  birth.         -         -         -     IK 
^rt,  9.     Of  the  unity  of  the  saints  with  Christ.  11: 
•Srt.  10.     Of  the  universal  love  and  grace  of 

God  to  all.         .         -        -        .        .  ib. 

Jirt.  11.     Of  the  light  that  enlighteneth  ev- 
ery man.         -        -        -        -        -        -    lli 

-3rf.  12.     Of  faith  and  justification.         -        11' 
•irt.  13.     Of  good  works.         -         -         -       11; 
iirt,  14.     Of  perfection.         -         -         -         IK 
drt.  15.     Of  perseverance,  and  falling  from 
grace.         -         -         -         -         -         -         11* 

Jrt.  16.     Of  the  church  and  ministry.         -     111 
iirt.  17.     Of  worship.         -         -         -         -    12 

.Srt.  18.     Of  baptism.         -         -         -         -  ib, 

Art.  19.  Of  eating  of  bread  and  wine,  wash- 
ing of  one  another's  feet,  abstaining  from 
things  strangled,  and  from  blood,  and 
anointing  of  the  sick  with  oil.  -  -  12i 
Jlrt.  20.  Of  the  liberty  of  such  Christians 
as  are  come  to  know  the  substance,  as  to 
the  using  or  Dot  using  of  these  rites,  and 
of  the  observation  of  days.  -  -  12i 
Art.  21.  Of  swearing,  fighting,  and  perse- 
cution.          -        12' 

Art,  22.  Of  magistracy.  -  -  -  12^ 
Art.  23.  Of  the  resurrection.  -  -  12! 
Chap.  17.     A  short  expostulation,  with  an 

appeal  to  all  other  professors.         -         -      1%\ 
Chap.  18.     A  short  examination  of  some  of 
the  scripture  proofs,  alleged  by  the  divines 
at  U^estminster,  to  prove  divers  articles  in 
their  Confession  of  Faith  and  Catechism.     13' 
>A.Dcient  Testimony  of  the  Quakers.        -        14; 


liaoo^.OSV.ooXo^ 


i